A Longing Fullfilled

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life." Proverbs 13:12

It was sometime in 2007 that three of us started talking about planting a church in Downtown Orlando. Then in 2008 there were only two of us. Towards the end of 2008 we knew we were going to move Downtown and started visiting the city regularly to learn the culture and make connections. In July 2009 we moved to Downtown. Thus began three long years.

The last three years have included a roller coaster of emotions, many changes to our plans, and trauma and pain of all sorts. After so much longing and waiting, we are here. Finally we are part of a core group to see a church planted in Downtown Orlando. I'm so excited and I can hardly believe that the vision God set in our hearts years ago is coming to fruition. 

Church planting is one of the most difficult callings in the world. The spiritual warfare alone is enough to cripple even the most mature believer. Oftentimes it does just that and takes whole families and communities with it. This is not a reality we are unaware of but we find the possibility of how God can transform a city outweighs our fears.

Are you longing for something right now? Perhaps you have the ache for a child and empty arms. Maybe you want to see a spouse delivered from sexual addiction. Maybe you need to be set free from a food/chemical/emotional addiction. My advice for you? Hold on. It will not be easy. Hold on. Many days you'll want to give up. Hold on. Oftentimes the weight of your longing may threaten to overwhelm you. Hold on. 

As one who is currently in the "already, not yet" season of seeing one longing fulfilled while others still hang in the balance, I understand how you feel. Know you are not alone and that's God's desire is for your good and His glory. It is coming. For now, hold on.  

"Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:13