Planted with a Purpose Read online

  But there are occasions when it seems like there is no time for process—those moments when something must be done now. There is no waiting. There are no seasons. There comes a time in your life when you need a word, a solution, or a miracle now. When dying on the operating table, you don’t need someone to run you through the process of the entire surgery. The surgeon should have started working the day before!

  We see this with the woman with the issue of blood. The woman was already dying, and we infer that it was her desperation for healing that drove her to press through the crowd and touch the hem of Jesus’ garment. Or what of the woman who was bent and bowed over for eighteen years (Luke 13:12)? Was it better for the Lord to tell her about what He would do to heal her or say, “Woman, thou art loosed”?

  What I am trying to get you to see is that, though the Lord develops us through a process that transforms us, He is fully aware of those moments when a season of change will take too long. There are times in our lives when He instantly brings forth in us what is necessary at that moment. Those are the instances when He moves from working on us through process to making us immediately incredible.

  God’s Best

  During the process of our crushing, fermentation, and transformation into God’s wine, we often lose sight of what our Master is doing and become consumed with impatience. “When, Lord?” we ask. “When will I see what you’re up to? When will my pain stop? When will my life turn around? When will my loss subside? When will I experience your joy and peace? When, Lord, when?”

  Perhaps you’re asking that question right now. You’ve sensed that the Vintner has been doing a mighty work in your life and that He has bottled you for distribution or is ready to pour you out for all the world to taste. However, there seems to be a delay, and you’re questioning Him about when He will do what He said He was going to do. You see others experiencing and walking in their promise while wondering when your day will come.

  But remember, God always saves the best for last.

  Do you realize that what took some people fifteen or even twenty years to accomplish, God can bring about for you in less than a day? So when it comes to the question of “when” that burns in your heart, remember that the same Husbandman who matured and cultivated you in your vine and grape stages is the same Vintner who crushed, fermented, and bottled you in your wine stages.

  God is fully aware of your times and seasons. You needn’t worry about anything, save keeping your eyes on the Master who has already called over the servants who will present what you have to the supervisor of the feast. The party is in full swing. The guests are present. Man’s temporary and less-desirable wine is running out, like it did at the wedding where Jesus performed his first miracle (see John 2:1–12). Your time is almost here. Remain patient. Your water is about to be drawn out to be sampled and served.

  Crushing is never the end.

  Your best is yet to come! You will bloom yet again.

  Thank God for the seasons you’ve experienced throughout life. Think about where you are now and what God could be preparing you for or protecting you from. Determine to stick with God throughout your seasons, knowing this is not your end and you will bloom within your purpose and God’s intended season.

  Discover Your Next Great Read

  Get sneak peeks, book recommendations, and news about your favorite authors.

  Tap here to learn more.

  About the Author

  T. D. JAKES is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of more than forty books and is the CEO of TDJ Enterprises, LLP. His television ministry program, The Potter’s Touch, is watched by 3.3 million viewers every week. He has produced Grammy Award–winning music as well as hit films such as Heaven Is for Real, Miracles from Heaven, and Jumping the Broom. A master communicator, he hosts MegaFest, Woman Thou Art Loosed, and other conferences attended by tens of thousands. He lives in Dallas, Texas.

  ALSO BY T. D. JAKES

  Crushing

  Soar!

  Inspired to Soar!

  Instinct

  Destiny

  Reposition Yourself

  Maximize the Moment

  64 Lessons for a Life without Limits

  Making Great Decisions

  The T. D. Jakes Relationship Bible

  Great Investment

  Ten Commandments of Working in a Hostile Environment

  On the Seventh Day

  Not Easily Broken

  So You Call Yourself a Man

  Woman, Thou Art Loosed!

  He-Motions

  Mama Made the Difference

  God’s Leading Lady

  Can You Stand to Be Blessed?

  Let It Go