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The following blog is a summary of a message preached by Pastor Eddie Lawrence.

Watch the Sermon HERE!

We all love those moments when God's glory is manifested—when the Holy Spirit moves powerfully and God's presence feels thick in the room. Many of us hold onto prophetic words and promises about what God will do in our lives. But what about the space between receiving a promise and seeing it fulfilled? How do we live faithfully in that gap?

What Does It Mean to Be a Faithful Steward?

In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul reminds us that "it is required in stewards that one be found faithful." A steward is someone who manages what has been entrusted to them. God has given each of us gifts, blessings, and responsibilities, and we are accountable to Him for how we handle them.

Many of us live with what could be called a "way out yonder" mindset—always looking to some future moment when things will be better, while neglecting what God has placed right in front of us today.

How Should We Use Our Time Wisely?

Ecclesiastes 11:6 instructs us: "In the morning, sow your seed, and in the evening, do not withhold your hand; for you do not know which will prosper." This scripture encourages productivity and diligence throughout our day. Don't be slothful—use your time wisely.

Romans 12:10-11 adds to this by telling us to be "kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." When God's glory is manifesting, it's easy to be fervent. But what about during trials, struggles, and difficult conversations? That's when our commitment is truly tested.

What's the Power and Peril of Routine?

Our first observation about living between the glory and the grind concerns routine—those things we do regularly and consistently. Ask yourself: Is my routine producing the fruit of the Spirit in my life, or does it tend to manifest my flesh?

From a righteous perspective, consistency is crucial. Daniel prayed three times daily, even knowing it could cost him his life. We need righteous routines like daily Bible reading and prayer. These aren't just religious activities—they're spiritual nourishment that prevents us from becoming spiritually emaciated.

However, not all routines are beneficial. Some can be destructive or wasteful. If you have unhelpful routines, ask the Holy Spirit for grace to become more disciplined and consistent so you can grow spiritually.

How Can I Stop Living for the Future and Start Living in the Present?

The second observation is: Don't just live for a moment, but learn to live in the moment. Proverbs tells us that "hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when desire comes, it's a tree of life."

Many of us fall into "out yonder thinking"—focusing so much on some future breakthrough that we become blind to what God is doing in our everyday life. We miss the blessings of a child's smile, a moment to color with our little girl, or a heart-to-heart conversation with our spouse.

Billy Sunday, the great evangelist who led thousands to Christ, reportedly said before his death: "I've gone around the world trying to reach others only to see my own children die and go to hell." What a sobering reminder that our primary ministry begins at home.

How Do I Find Peace in My Current Circumstances?

The third observation is: Choose readiness over restlessness. Being consistent in your everyday spiritual disciplines prepares you for the challenges ahead. When you became a Christian, you didn't receive a guarantee of trouble-free living, but you did receive the promise that you would never face those troubles alone.

God uses everything you go through to prepare you for what's coming. Romans 8:28 reminds us that "He works all things together for good to those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."

Paul said in Philippians 4 that he had "learned to be content in whatever state" he was in. You're either going to live in one of two tents: content or discontent. Don't sign up for a life of restlessness and dissatisfaction.

What's the Difference Between Working For God and Working With God?

The final observation is: Learn the difference between doing more for God and doing more with God. Doing things with God means:

 

  • Having an awareness that you're not in this alone
  • Acknowledging your limitations and weaknesses
  • Recognizing that God is partnering with you through His Holy Spirit

 

Our walk with Christ is just that—a walk with Christ. Jesus modeled this by only doing what He saw the Father doing. We need to balance commitment and diligence with an awareness of God's presence in everything we do.

Brother Lawrence, a monk from centuries ago, learned to experience God's presence while scrubbing pots in a monastery kitchen. Whatever God has given you to do, do it for Him and be aware He's with you. "Whatever you do, do it all as a service to the Lord" (Colossians 3:23).

Life Application

This week, I challenge you to become more aware of God's presence in your everyday activities. Whether you're at work, caring for children, or completing household chores, practice acknowledging that God is with you in that moment.

Ask yourself these questions:

 

  • Am I spending too much time focused on future promises while missing present blessings?
  • What routines in my life need to be evaluated or changed?
  • How can I be more intentional about spending quality time with those I love?
  • Am I trying to do things for God or with God?

 

Remember, the space between receiving God's promises and seeing them fulfilled isn't wasted time—it's preparation time. Be faithful in the small things, stay fervent in spirit, and learn to find contentment in Christ regardless of your circumstances. The Lord is with you right now, in this moment, ready to help you navigate both the glory and the grind.