Delayed Dreams ✨

Preface:

A few days ago, I stumbled across a YouTube video mentioning Proverbs 13:12: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." This resonated with me, I've felt this way. Fast forward, I was sitting in the car reflecting—feeling like I could and should be doing more. Then, I received a text asking, "What’s on your mind?" I answered, and their response was simple yet powerful. Along the lines of: "Pray about it, have faith, and chill out..." in so many words. This made me think back to the scripture I'd discovered days ago, Proverbs 13:12, inspiring me to write this for you and unpack the emotions tied to delayed dreams and the faith it takes to keep hoping. Just incase you're in this same boat. Read on...

Disclaimer: This is not a religious post. Whatever you believe in is all you. Grasp the message. Ok, here we go...

Hope Deferred (Unfulfilled Hope):

The first part of the verse highlights the emotions felt when expectations are delayed. When you desire something—whether it’s a goal/dream, or answer to a prayer and it doesn’t come to pass, it can lead to disappointment or discouragement. 

I think that "hope deferred" isn’t just about the delay; it’s about what happens during the delay. The waiting tests your patience. The waiting even tests your belief in what you’re working towards. 

A Longing Fulfilled (Fulfilled Desire):

The second part contrasts the first part by describing the joy that comes from seeing a desire fulfilled. Comparing the fulfillment to the tree of life symbolizes nourishment and growth. I would say that this suggests that realized hope brings satisfaction and rejuvenation.

This gives me hope. It reminds me that the joy and fulfillment we’re chasing are worth the wait. The dreams we hold on to even when they seem far have the potential to become something beautiful.

So if you’re in a season of waiting, I hope this resonates with you. Hold on to your dreams, but don’t forget to hold on to faith too. Pray about it and trust the process. Sometimes the growth that happens while waiting is the thing that prepares you for what’s next. While waiting can feel difficult, faith and trust in God's timing can provide hope.

Applying this to Life:

Patience: When those feelings start to overwhelm you, focus on perseverance. Instead of succumbing to frustration, remind yourself that delay doesn’t equal denial. Keep going, and wait it out. 

Rethink Disappointment: Think of your waiting season as an opportunity for personal growth. Use the delay to build resilience and time to strengthen your faith. Trust that God may be preparing something even better than you expect. You can consider doing things like journaling, praying, reading, meditation, etc.

Strengthen Your Spirituality: Strengthening your spiritual connection can provide some satisfaction and relief. Your faith can be strengthened through your trust in God during seasons of waiting.

Share Hope with Others: Sometimes sharing your experiences and emotions can inspire and uplift others in their own journeys, moreover, they can provide encouragement for you as well.

Personal Reflection:

Ask yourself:

• What hopes/dreams have I been holding onto that feel deferred and how does this make me feel?
• What can I do during this waiting period to keep me encouraged?
  

I hope you gained some satisfaction in knowing that you're not alone and that your waiting season can be an opportunity. 

Peace y'all.

written by Morgan | @MORGANtheCEO