You are probably the one that others seem to always come to when they are in need or want someone to share in their celebrations. Those who are close to you and who know you well will often include you in their personal ups and downs, and it is simply because you are known for being the strong one. Your strength is the gift that you bring to the table in your relationships. This is undoubtedly the reason why God has placed an addicted or lost person in your life and in your heart.

You might have heard at some point in your life that you will never qualify for your own blessing until you can celebrate when a miracle happens in a life that is close by. It has been said that your attitude is being tested when someone near to you is blessed with the same answer you have been praying for. I suppose there is truth to that, and not becoming bitter when others seem to be getting all the favor is an observable trait of a mature spirit. But during this season of prayer, you will most assuredly be in contact with many people who are facing similar crisis in their lives and you will see God move in powerful ways. All while you are watching. And it will be annoying and irritating and maddening, and it’s okay. I heard a great man say that when you see greatness, you have two choices: either become intimidated or inspired. And how you respond to these moments will largely determine not only your long-term perspective, but also your outcome. It is okay when doubts drive you to question, as long as you take those questions to God.

You are in a brief but vital season of development and misery. “But if this assignment was from God, how could I be miserable? How can God expect me to be so involved in someone else’s life while I have my own drama? Is He just toying with me?” It’s okay to have those questions.

Mary had so many things going for her. She was engaged to be married, and there were plans being made and prepared that would impact her life forever after. Then God came and rearranged every single plan and idea that she and her fiancé Joseph had dreamt. Now, Joseph had walked out on her because she had become pregnant by someone else, and the entire countryside silently cast their judgements on her. So, she ran away also, to her cousins house a few towns over and who was experiencing her own baby drama. Elizabeth had been convinced that her unborn child had died in her womb, for she had not felt it move in some time. And even though Mary had been rejected by her own husband and left on her own, she still went to her cousin Elizabeth to share her love and support for her. And the moment that Mary approached Elizabeth, scripture says that the baby in Elizabeth’s womb began to move excitedly and once again Elizabeth’s hope was renewed.

If Mary had been unwilling to shift her focus from herself and make herself available for the needs of someone else, she would have missed a major blessing. At the moment she made that decision, Elizabeth spoke a life-giving word to Mary and confirmed the words that the angel had told her and comforted her in the midst of her own issues.

Can you help someone else with their promise while you are miserable over yours? Can you help them find answers while you are struggling with your doubts? Can you keep a positive attitude towards God while He seems to be ignoring you? Keep your eyes open because your answer might come while you’re faithfully serving another with theirs.