“But Jesus replied, ‘My Father is always working, and so am I’” -John 5:17.

God is always at work in our lives. Even when it doesn't feel or seem like it, He is always on the move. However, often times we limit God's will and calling upon our lives to external breakthrough, open doors and progress. When things are not going the way we expected them to go, we begin to doubt God and question if we are in God's will. In moments like these I believe God is doing some of the deepest works within us. 

When God is not moving through us it's because He is trying to move within us. There are seasons where doors open and things flow smoothly and other times when things feel stuck and stagnant. When we feel stuck and stagnant it can be some of the most frustrating times of our lives.

However, it is during these times that God is doing the deepest work in our lives. Anyone who truly desires to live for God’s glory will go through strict training and preparation. God does not spoil His children (Prov 3:12, Heb 12:6). He will allow His children to go through much hardship and struggles in order to purify their hearts (Mal 3:2-3, 1 Pet 5:7).

I once heard a pastor say before there is a breakthrough there is often times a breakdown.

Why does God do this? Why is this God’s method of training? It is because before God can move through us, He has to move within us. God is more interested in who we become rather than in what we can do (Lk 6:24, Rom 8:29).  

God’s desire is that we will live our lives from who we are rather than from what we can do or accomplish. When doors close and life seems stagnant, it is not a time to go looking for answers, it is a time to go looking for God. As frustrating as this season may be, it can become one of the sweetest times of your life.

How can we apply this to our lives?

The first thing to do is to repent. Sometimes our desires may be selfish and the reason why God is not answering is because we are asking for our personal ambitions (Phil 2:2-4, Js 4:2-3).

The second thing to do is to surrender. Surrender all of our desires before the Lord and pray that His will, will be done and not ours (Matt 6:10-13, Lk 22:42).

Thirdly, persevere and be faithful with what He has given you (Lk 16:10). God may be testing you with the small things in front of you. If we cannot be faithful with little things He has given us, we won’t be faithful with the things to come. What we do today will determine where we will be tomorrow! May God be glorified through all of our lives.  

Finally, seize the moment and own the season that you are in (Ecc 3:1:-8, Eph 5:16). Life is about seasons and discerning God's timing. Many people can discern God's will for their lives, but can have a hard time discerning God's timing. Understand that what you are going through is unique to the season that God has placed you in. We don't need to rush into the future. Let God has His way today and tomorrow will take care of itself.