Meeting Frustration with Faith

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28

Carlo has been trying to finish a real estate project only to face almost two years of delays and roadblocks. Ever experienced that kind of frustration?

It took Carlo nine months just to get a building permit. Then, he needed to get his project built and sold. Finally, when construction was 95% complete, even more roadblocks popped up. “I do get disappointed, frustrated and cry out in despair to our Father about this situation,” Carlo says. “And then He reminds me that He is in control, that He is a good God and that all things work together for good to those who love Him and are called to His purpose.”

Carlo says he has no idea why God allows these delays. When our plans are thwarted, we may be tempted to shake a fist at God and shout, “Why?!” Carlo is doing something a lot more effective than fist-shaking—he’s praying. “I pray to have faith and to trust Him more regardless of the status or outcome, he says.

Is it easy? No. Carlo admits: “It is difficult, but I try to picture Him protecting me during a storm and thank Him for the things he protects me from that I may not see or appreciate at the moment.” Carlo is living out a verse from the Bible book of Romans that says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8:28).

“We can make our plans,” the Bible’s Proverbs say, “but the Lord’s purpose will prevail” (Proverbs 19:21) because He “determines our steps” (Proverbs 6:9). If you’re frustrated today with delays and unexplained problems, join Carlo in a prayer of faith!