The Lord blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the former part. (Job 42:12)
At eighteen years old, Jan’s dreams for her future were at their peak. She was sure that the plans that she was making were going to work out, especially the ones made in prayer with God. More specifically, she knew that God told her that she would one day minister in Africa.
Shortly after, she was married and along came babies. She was blessed, but she could not have foreseen the deep suffering she would also endure during those years. No matter what she walked through and what questions she had for God, she held fast to the promise that he made to her many years before.
Like Job, Jan remained firmly committed to God despite not understanding the troubles that she experienced. Both of their lives were filled with great blessings and great suffering, but because of their faith, the result was deeper intimacy with God. Job’s family was restored to him, and Jan’s dream did come to pass. At seventy-two years old, she not only went to Africa, but she built a women’s shelter that will continue on long after she passes from earth to heaven.
I wonder how many times I have given up on a dream because it did not happen as fast as I would have liked. I am thankful that God does not give up on us or forget his promises.
Ask God to give you the courage to dream again.
Heather Mazellan is a student at Wesley Seminary, a thankful wife, and a joyful mother to three kids.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
