Delay is not Denial
You've possibly heard a sermon with a similar topic, but this maxim is most commonly attributed to Coach Dawn Staley (U.S. women's national basketball team coach). Her version is somewhat different, saying, "what is delayed is not denied."
As we approach the end of the year, there may still be one or two goals you outlined for yourself earlier in the year that has not materialized. You may be feeling uncomfortable with the delay, perceiving it as a denial. Such feeling is counterproductive to the manifestation of your goals. It is often said that what you think, you produce. So if you feel your requests have been denied, you may unintentionally wield that unfavorable outcome. Here are three ways to keep a positive attitude in order to prevent the delay from being a denial.
Remember past testimonies: If we permit ourselves to journey in times past, sincerely, we will find that God has been faithful in many ways in the 4th quarter. Recalling your past testimonies could help you keep hope alive.
Speak in the past tense: Speak as though your blessings have arrived. For instance, if your desire is for a new home, affirm that your house is in your possession already. Often used with bad intentions like brainwashing, the concept of validity effect (also known as the illusory truth effect) is presented here: the tendency to believe unsubstantiated information to be real after repeated exposure to such information.
Thank God in advance: Knowing your blessings have arrived, the appropriate thing to do is to show gratitude. Why not thank God in advance today for that blessing yet to be seen to the naked eye?
In the book of 2nd Peter, in chapters three and verse nine, it says, "The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness..." Habakkuk 2:3 also reminds us that "the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end, it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." I hope that with these few points of mine, I have convinced you that delay is not denial. God's got you; stay positive!
Best wishes,
L.B.