How to Trust God When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned: Persevere

I recently had the honor of speaking to a wonderful group of women. There was just one little problem: halfway through the event, the air conditioning went out. The temperature outside was 98 degrees, and inside… well, it was hot.

As I stood there speaking, I could feel sweat running down my back, pooling in my pits, and saturating my hairline. Yuck, I know.

A few minutes into my teaching, a woman passed out and had to be hurried from the event center (thankfully, she was okay). Yet somewhere between the heat, the sweat, and the words I’d come to share, the women in that room stayed focused. Honestly, if I’d been a conference attendee, I probably would’ve been thinking,* just get to the point, I’m melting here.*

But these women were dialed in — not because of me, but because I was sharing God’s Word.

And that reminded me of something I think we all need to remember: our assignments don’t always come with ideal conditions.

Oh, did I mention I got the call to speak at this conference only three days ahead of time, because another speaker canceled at the last minute?

We often imagine that when God calls us to do something, it will go smoothly. But that’s not always how it happens. Sometimes God asks us to step forward even when we’re uncomfortable. We have to trust Him when we don’t know how things are going to work out. And there are seasons we never would’ve chosen, yet God meets us right there.

Maybe you’re in a broken A/C season right now. Life feels uncomfortable. You’re worn down from waiting. Things aren’t going the way you thought they would.

Be encouraged. Galatians 6:9 says, “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”

God doesn’t need perfect circumstances, but He does desire our perseverance. He wants our willingness to stay in the room, even when it’s hot. To show up and serve, even when we don’t feel thoroughly prepared. Keep seeking Him. Stay faithful to what He’s called you to do, even when everything around you says, “Just quit.”

If I’m being honest, the heat was a bit distracting, and it wasn’t my best speaking moment, but God showed up and touched the hearts of the women there in a way only He can do.

Learning to trust God when life doesn’t go as planned isn’t always easy, but those are often the very circumstances that when we persevere, our faith grows strongest.

And for the record, I’m perfectly happy to serve Jesus in uncomfortable circumstances. But next time, I’m bringing a change of clothes and a fan.🪭