Budzban: Waiting for things to happen in God’s time takes patience
“But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me some kindness; mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison.”
— Genesis 40:14 (NIV)
My friend shared with me her frustration over a situation at work.
She was next in line on the list for the early shift and her boss overlooked her.
“My boss must have known I was written down as the next in line,” she said. “But she told me she didn’t know anything about it. How could she not remember me?”
I explained that I understood her frustration. The same thing happened to me in the past, but it turned out for my good. God directed me to a new job, which later led me to a promotion. I may not have had that opportunity if I had not made the decision to move on.
Among my favorite stories in the Bible is the story of Joseph.
He was totally mistreated. First, his brothers sold him into slavery. Then he was thrown into prison over something that wasn’t his fault. Several years later, he did a cell mate (the cupbearer) a favor, which helped him get out of prison. Joseph asked him to return the favor with these two words, “remember me.”
It was two more years before the cupbearer remembered Joseph. Imagine the hurt and rejection he must have felt while he waited two more years.
But God was still working on him and his circumstances. God had something far better planned for Joseph than he could imagine, but he needed more time to grow. He would become second in command in all Egypt and that took maturity.
Many times we are faced with what feels like our own personal prison while we are waiting for a promotion, a marriage proposal, or a healing of some type to take place.
It is important during these times we don’t do anything unwise. We must overcome our feelings of being angry and overlooked, and replace them with the faith-filled promise, “God has a plan for me.”
My promotion didn’t come for a few years, but in his time, God remembered me. The day will come, when you will realize God hasn’t forgotten you. Then, you will be set free from your personal prison.
Like Joseph, you will be released to fulfill the dream God has given you.
Ÿ Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach, and nurse. Join her at Panera Bread in Round Lake Beach Saturday April, 6th for “13 Steps to Make Your Dreams Realities.” No charge for the conference. Due to limited seating register by calling (847) 543-8413 or email Annetteebudzban@aol.com