When we are in the hard seasons of life, it is easy for us to look for an exit strategy. We plan in our heads: what we could do to eliminate some things off of our plate, what could we make easier, and where we can drop the heavy load when it gets unbearable. Instead of finding a way out, maybe God is telling you to embrace this fiery season. Just like we would endure the good seasons, we also are called to embrace the stay during the insufferable and unbearable times in our lives. What if God is whispering those four letters to you—stay. God needs you to actually go through the rain in order to see the rainbow. The beautiful reminder about your current situation is that it will not last always. When it feels too overwhelming and painful to see past what you are experiencing right now, remember God’s pruning and healing that is taking place in this moment. God’s protection is in the place that you are staying. God’s promises are in what you are going through. A revelation from God is in the middle of the process that you are trying to escape—stay. Though it feels bleak and uncomfortable, God is with you. There is insight in staying in the hard places.
When God delivered instructions for someone in the Bible to stay, it was never without purpose. The story of Elijah has many themes and seasons of staying and going. Elijah was a mighty prophet in battle for the glory of God. Elijah was instructed by God to go to a brook called Cherith. During this time, the land was experiencing a drought that lasted over three years. There was nothing else in this desolate place, except for the brook and Elijah. Elijah could have easily walked away from this brook. He could have found somewhere else that was fruitful, but he stayed in this barren place. This was the momental moment where Elijah was being equipped and prepared by God for his assignment. God’s provision was with Elijah. God provided through ravens to deliver food for him. God’s instructions came with everything that Elijah needed. Though excruciating, Elijah followed God’s voice and stayed. (1 Kings 17:1-7)
Even though this season is not what you imagined or expected—stay. God is preparing and working in you to experience the fullness of The Holy Spirit. He is sharping your discipline. He is aligning your plans with His. He is enhancing His discernment within you. Just like Elijah, you will come out with a power like never before. Stay in this drought that you are experiencing. Stay in the desert place you are in. God already has your next steps figured out. The voice of God will become clear as you stay in this season of battle. God is walking alongside you. He is leaving signs and miracles for you to see. You do have to avoid or dodge what is coming at you. Embrace what is happening. Trust God’s timing and promises. Stay in it with God. Wait in the brook with hope. Wait in the brook with faith. Things change when we call His name. You will be evidence of what God can do no matter what it may look like. The establishment can only happen through the trials. The pruning can only transpire when you stay the course. There is no glory without the process—stay.
“The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him.” -Lamentations 3:25
“But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.” -Micah 7:7
“I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry.” -Psalm 40:1
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