“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy.”
— Proverbs 13:12 (NLT)
When your dreams are postponed to a later time, your heart becomes discouraged and disappointed. But when those dreams come true, you’re filled with new life and energy.
You know firsthand about disappointment. You moved to a new school when your dad, who’s in the U.S. Air Force, was transferred again. Each day you pray for God to bring a special friend into your life. Every night you cry yourself to sleep because no one seems to reach out. You keep praying. Then one day, you notice the Drama Club’s sign-up sheet on the bulletin board. You love art and think you could paint scenery. After school, you meet with the stage crew. Both Sierra and Jenna are friendly to you, and the three of you walk home together afterward. That night, your disappointment is gone. In its place is a new joy at having your prayer answered.
We don’t always receive what we hope for right away. Just because your answer seems delayed, don’t get discouraged and give up praying. Some things just take time.
Keep praying, keep your hope alive — and look forward to a heart filled with joy.
More to Explore: Psalm 69:3 and Proverbs 13:19
Girl Talk: What things are you hoping for that haven’t happened yet? Are you still praying for them?
God Talk: “Lord, thank you for putting dreams in my heart. Help me to keep praying — and be patient — while I wait for my dreams to come true. Amen.”
From Chick Chat by Kristi Holl