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We looked around in anguish.

The windows were broken, a tree had fallen through the roof of the shed, and the listing agent said there would be no compromise on the purchase price. To say we were disappointed would be an understatement. We placed an offer on a beautiful farm, and within two weeks a storm and vandals had rendered the property useless.

Our family wasn't enjoying our busy suburb anymore. I homeschooled, and few children would leave their friends from school to play with our son. We prayed and asked what we should do. Both of us agreed it was time to move. This property was everything we wanted—a small house with five acres, space to grow, and budget friendly. But now ruined.

My husband and I sat at the table that night and prayed. We asked God if this was a closed door. If so, we would be okay staying in our current home, but we also asked for direction again. After praying, we still believed the move would take place and vowed we would not be discouraged. Starting the process over again after what we thought was losing the perfect home was difficult. Then, on the day after we would have closed on the first home, a new property went up for sale. It had a better layout, beautiful wood floors, a large barn, and nearly ten acres. And best of all, it fell within our budget. For almost two years, we had searched for a new home, and after disappointment and a hearty trial of patience, we found the home God had planned for us.

While waiting is never easy, patience is more than just waiting. Patience included monitoring our attitude while waiting, speaking in hope that a better home would be listed, being kind to each other when we were frustrated by the wait, and enjoying family time in the weeks that passed with no answer. No matter what the circumstance, we can be joyful in the wait because God is good.  

Ask God for patience to endure when things don't happen as you expect.

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

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