6 Steps to Trust God in Tough Times: Waiting on God's Plan

In life's challenging seasons, waiting on God can feel like an impossible task. Yet, as believers, we're called to trust in His perfect timing and plan. Drawing inspiration from the prophet Habakkuk, let's explore six biblical steps to help us wait on God faithfully during difficult times.

When facing trials, it's crucial to remember God's true nature. Habakkuk affirms God's eternal, holy, and sovereign character (Habakkuk 1:12-13). By focusing on who God is and who we know Him to be, we anchor our faith in His unchanging nature. As Deuteronomy 31:6 reminds us, "Be strong and courageous; don't be terrified or afraid of them. For the Lord your God is the one who will go with you; he will not leave you or abandon you." 

Position yourself to hear from God. Habakkuk 2:1 says, "I will stand at my guard post and station myself on the lookout tower. I will watch to see what he will say to me." Create space in your life to listen for God's gentle whisper, removing distractions and quieting your heart to hear His voice. 

God instructs Habakkuk to "Write down this vision; clearly inscribe it on tablets" (Habakkuk 2:2). Writing helps us remember, meditate on, and prioritize God's Word. Record the truths of who God is and what He promises.

If you aren’t sure how to start, here are some great scriptures to write and memorize: 

• Romans 8:28 
• Psalm 18:1-3 
• Jeremiah 29:11-14a 
• Philippians 4:12-13 
• Psalm 103:1-5

Trust in God's perfect timing. Habakkuk 2:3 states, "For the vision is yet for the appointed time... Though it delays, wait for it, since it will certainly come and not be late." Align your heart with God's purpose and timing, remembering that His delays are not denials. As Titus 1:2 assures us, God "cannot lie." 

In challenging times, choose to live by faith. "But the righteous one will live by his faith" (Habakkuk 2:4). Continue to trust God and live for His purposes, even when circumstances seem dire. Let your faith be your guiding light, knowing that God's righteousness will ultimately prevail.

Seek God's presence in community. Habakkuk 2:20 reminds us, "But the Lord is in his holy temple; let the whole earth be silent in his presence." Actively engage with fellow believers, worshiping together and supporting one another through trials. As Hebrews 10:25 encourages, "not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching."
 

Waiting on God is an opportunity for spiritual growth and deepening our trust in Him. By focusing on His character, listening for His voice, writing down His truths, aligning with His timing, living by faith, and seeking His presence in community, we can navigate tough times with hope and confidence. Remember, every testimony goes through a time of testing. As you faithfully wait on God, He will use your experience not only to transform you but also to encourage others in their faith journey.
 
What step will you take today to trust God more deeply as you wait on His perfect plan?

This blog is based on a message preached by Lead Pastor Dr. Brian Stone on September 22, 2024, as part of the When God Doesn’t series. You can watch the full message here.