Faith and “Meanwhile”

Meanwhile, the believers who had been scattered during the persecution after Stephen’s death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch of Syria. Acts 11:10

A few weeks ago, I was scheduled to lead our pre-service prayer. I always try to take the time to ask the Lord for any extra direction He may want to give or share with those present. He showed me that there were many who had a weary week. They were carrying burdens, some they had been carrying a long time. These were things they had been praying about for a long time. This phrase came to mind: let them know that as they serve me, I am serving them. Most of those who are faithful to the pre-service prayer time are those who choose to serve in some capacity each week.

As we lifted our burdens and concerns to the Lord, I could feel a shift for many. Such a word of faith. God is working on our behalf while we are busy with His assignments. He is moving on our behalf to answer prayer, make connections and help us through every difficult circumstances. I want to encourage you, even in the midst of your trial, that God is “meanwhile” working behind the scenes for each of us.

We see another example of “meanwhile” in Matthew 14. Immediately, after this, Jesus insisted that his disciple sent back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. Matthew 14:22. So the disciples followed Jesus instructions. They got in the boat and started to the other side. Jesus went off by himself to pray. But meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. They did what he asked, he went about his business, but went to them when they needed him. It is the same with us. He is always with us, and shows up with everything we need, as we walk with him.

Take heart, my friends. He has not forgotten the prayers you have prayed for salvation, healing or breakthroughs–even if you have been praying for many years. Stay faithful. Serve Him. Love Him. Trust Him. Rest in Him. All the while, remembering that He is the God in whom we may trust our past, our present and our future.

Father, it’s humbling to think of you serving us. You served your disciples by washing their feet, feeding them, teaching them and you have not stopped. Help us to trust you with every long term prayer–even if nothing seems to change. You are so faithful, help us become as faithful servants to your kingdom as you are to us. In Jesus’ Name, amen.