Author Darlene J. Conard

I lingered in the shower, enveloped by the soothing warmth of the water cascading over my shoulders. The droplets streamed down my face, mingling with the remnants of tears that had just fallen, their saltiness fading away into the soothing flow. It felt like a moment suspended in time, an interlude in a symphony of uncertainty. God, I’m at a loss in this unexpected pause you’ve placed me in, I thought, frustration and confusion swirling within me. I couldn’t grasp why such heavy emotions weighed on my heart.

As I continued to rinse away the suds that clung stubbornly to my skin, I felt a gentle presence envelop me, and the Lord’s voice reverberated softly through my spirit: “I’m cutting away what does not belong; the next season holds great and glorious things.” The words hung in the air, a promise of transformation that stirred hope deep within me, even as I wrestled with the unknown.

Often, God places us in situations filled with uncertainty to shape and guide us. He frequently grants me visions and dreams. On one occasion, I sought clarity about a particular matter, asking, “Lord, could you reveal more about this situation?” He responded, “I can, but I won’t.” 

“Why not?” I found myself pondering aloud, a sense of uncertainty swirling within me. In response, He spoke softly, His voice imbued with warmth and understanding. “I want you to have faith in what I have promised,” He explained, a gentle assurance wrapping around my doubts. “In other words, I need you to trust in what I said I would accomplish, even when circumstances seem bleak.”

I realized that even during those moments when I don’t feel my best, or when my faith seems to be on shaky ground, there’s a profound truth at play—He’s still actively working in my life. In fact, it is often during these challenging times that His efforts become the most powerful and transformative. The realization filled me with a sense of hope, reminding me that His promises stand firm, regardless of my feelings or circumstances.

As the evening settled softly around me, I nestled into the comforting embrace of my living room, the gentle hum of silence enveloping me. I concentrated on the stillness, my heart attuned to an unseen presence. Then, in a voice that resonated with warmth and familiarity, the Lord said, “Darlene, thrust your hand in My side and feel the promise.” A surge of emotion overwhelmed me, and tears streamed down my cheeks, glistening like tiny stars against my skin. The clarity of His words washed over me, intertwining with the profound weight of His invitation, filling the room with a sense of unmistakable power and hope.

We can find comfort and assurance in the promises made by God, knowing that what He vows to us is not a wish, but a certainty that will come to fruition. His commitments are steadfast and unwavering, providing us with hope and a sense of security as we navigate through life’s challenges.

“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” —2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries. If you have a prayer request, please email it to darlene.conard@hotmail.com, and my intercessors and I will pray.

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