“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

– Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

You’re Not There—Yet

How often do we say things like:

❌ “I can’t do this.”
❌ “I’ll never be good at that.”
❌ “I don’t understand what God is doing.”

When we face obstacles, it’s easy to feel stuck, frustrated, or even like giving up. But what if we changed our mindset? What if, instead of seeing challenges as permanent roadblocks, we saw them as part of the process of growth?

One small word can change everything—the word “YET.”

✅ “I can’t do this… YET.”
✅ “I don’t understand… YET.”
✅ “I haven’t overcome this struggle… YET.”

This simple word shifts our thinking from defeat to possibility. It reminds us that God isn’t finished with us.

You may not be where you want to be yet—but that doesn’t mean you won’t get there.

God’s Plans Take Time

Jeremiah 29:11 is one of the most quoted verses in Scripture, offering hope and reassurance that God has good plans for us. But what many don’t realize is that this promise was given to the Israelites while they were in exile—far from where they wanted to be.

Imagine being told that God has good plans for your life… while you’re stuck in a place you don’t want to be. It probably wouldn’t feel very encouraging in the moment.

God didn’t promise instant relief. Instead, He assured them that He was working, even in the waiting.

Maybe you’re feeling like you’re in exile right now.
➡️ Stuck in a situation that doesn’t seem to be changing.
➡️ Praying for something and seeing no immediate answer.
➡️ Struggling with a personal weakness that feels impossible to overcome.

If that’s you, remember this: Just because you don’t see the progress yet doesn’t mean God isn’t working.

🌱 Growth Takes Process

Think about a seed. A seed doesn’t become a tree overnight.

🌱 First, it has to be buried.
🌱 Then, it breaks open.
🌱 It takes time to sprout.
🌱 It faces harsh weather, storms, and challenges.
🌱 But eventually, it becomes a strong, fruitful tree.

This is how God works in our lives. Growth requires breaking, waiting, and trusting. The waiting season isn’t wasted—it’s preparing you for what’s ahead.

The “Yet” Mindset: Seeing Challenges as Growth Opportunities

God often allows challenges, setbacks, and delays not to punish us, but to grow us.

Here’s how you can embrace the power of “yet” in your faith:

1. Recognize the Process

✅ Growth isn’t instant. It takes time, patience, and trust.
✅ Your struggles don’t define you—they refine you.

Instead of saying, “I’ll never be able to do this,” say, “I’m not able to do this… YET.”

2. Speak Life Over Yourself

What we tell ourselves matters. Instead of speaking discouragement, speak faith:

❌ “I’m not good enough.”
✅ “God is equipping me every day.”

❌ “I’ll never overcome this fear.”
✅ “With God’s help, I’m growing stronger.”

Words shape our mindset—let yours be filled with hope.

3. Step Forward in Faith

Faith doesn’t mean knowing every detail of the future. Faith means taking the next step, even when you can’t see the full path.

✅ Start the work. Even if you don’t feel ready.
✅ Pray boldly. Even if you’re still waiting for an answer.
✅ Trust God’s timing. Even if it’s slower than you’d like.

Every step moves you forward.

4. Stay Rooted in God’s Word

When doubt creeps in, turn to God’s promises:

📖 “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6

📖 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

God’s Word reminds us of the bigger picture.

5. Surround Yourself with Encouragement

Growth isn’t meant to be a solo journey.

🌟 Surround yourself with people who remind you of God’s promises.
🌟 Find a community that builds you up instead of tearing you down.
🌟 Lean on mentors, friends, and leaders who have been through seasons of waiting and growth.

Faith grows in community.

🌟 You’re not finished yet. God’s not done with you yet. Keep growing, keep trusting, and keep moving forward—because your future is in His hands. 💛