patience

I recently learned the true meaning of the saying, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." My parents used to quote this to me all the time to remind me not to get my hopes up about something that hasn't happened yet. Easier said than done, yes?

I guess I am notorious for getting really excited and passionate about everything. If there's the possibility of an inspirational musician coming to the area, I get excited. If there's the possibility that I might help organize a youth event, I get excited. If there's the possibility that I maybe somehow could go somewhere exciting, I get excited.

And most recently, I got excited over a ministry here at Olivet.

I have very prayerfully been examining my motives for being apart of a worship team in college this entire summer; is this for me and my pride and fame, or for the glory of God? Am I in this to impress people, or to serve my Savior? As I felt a peace come on my heart in regards to sign ups this week, I began researching the different outbound ministries that Olivet has. I found one in particular that really seemed to match what I have been praying for for months.

Imagine how excited I became at the discovery of this ministry, and how much more prayer went into considering it! And then, imagine how crushed I became when I found out that auditions for this ministry aren't until the spring of next semester. After all of my praying and asking and being humbled, I have to wait?

"Patience, my child," God says. "I know what is best for you. I know your heart intimately and right now, this is where I want you."

So, today I acknowledge that when God starts teaching you, He never stops. He is teaching me humility, trust, love, gratefulness, and most recently, patience. God is in the business of changing lives, and I want mine to be changed. And today, that means that I must accept the opportunities He gives me and be patient for the ones that are to come. I'm excited.