The great stress and emotion you feel, these very cares of a fluctuating matter, are as wind upon the lamp. You ask that God remove every obstacle, but consider Abraham, who had the obstacle of a body now dead, of Sarah’s deadened womb, and yet he hoped against hope. The Lord who leads you to the very vestibule does not always open the doors at once, and this too is for your good.
You are vexed that you have not yet received what you seek? What then of those who wait longer still? The reward is not given unless all are present. Do not let this impatience quench the Spirit, for a life set on earthly things extinguishes the gift of grace. Close the eye and ear to every violent blast of wickedness and discouragement, and shut the mouth with the fear of God, lest you add force to the wind.
Store up your treasure in the inviolable house above, for here no lock or bar can keep worldly things from corruption or loss. Let your prayer be pure, not for the approval of men, but as one approved of God, entering the inner chamber with a mind freed from vainglory. Mercifulness and a quiet trust are a protector; they stand near Him readily asking favor.
Now, consider how God works: the prison doors were shut fast, and Paul and Silas were in bonds, yet at midnight they prayed and sang praises. The earthquake came, the doors flew open, and the jailer was saved. The closed door served a purpose for salvation. Do not see a delay as a denial. Pray, not as demanding the opening, but with such watchful trust that you can sing in your bonds, knowing that if the door remains shut, it is not because He has abandoned you, but because He is proving your heart and entrusting you with something greater. Wait on Him with a quiet and steady flame.