Fresh Start – Day 6: When You Feel Behind

Trusting God’s Timing Over Your Own

Welcome to Day 6 of Fresh Start: A Devotional Journey for the New Year. If you’ve entered this year already feeling tired, delayed, or unsure, today’s devotion is for you.

Scripture

“The righteous flourish like the palm tree… They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green.”
Psalm 92:12, 14 (ESV)

(KJV: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree… they shall still bring forth fruit.”)

Biblical Context

Psalm 92 is a song written for the Sabbath — a day set apart for rest and reflection. The psalmist uses the imagery of trees to describe the life of the righteous. Palm trees and cedars were known for their strength, endurance, and longevity, not for fast growth.

These trees survived storms by bending instead of breaking. Their roots grew deep over time, allowing them to flourish long after other plants had withered.

This imagery reminds us that God values steady growth more than speed. Flourishing in God’s Kingdom is not about how quickly you move forward, but how deeply you are rooted in Him.

Faith Principle

Feeling behind does not mean you are falling short.

The pressure to keep up is everywhere. We measure progress by milestones, timelines, and comparison. But God measures growth differently.

He sees what’s happening beneath the surface — the strength being formed, the character being shaped, the faith being stretched.

Growth that happens quietly is still growth.
Growth that takes time is still purposeful.

God is never rushed, never late, and never careless with your journey.

Application

If you feel behind, consider these gentle reminders:

1. Release comparison.
Your pace does not need to match anyone else’s.

2. Trust what God is growing in you.
Some of the most important work happens where no one else can see.

3. Choose faithfulness over urgency.
Consistency with God will always outlast quick momentum.

You are not behind — you are becoming.

Prayer

Father, calm my heart when I feel delayed or discouraged. Help me trust Your timing and believe that You are at work even when progress feels slow. Teach me to walk with patience, confidence, and peace as You guide my steps. Amen.

Journaling Prompt

Where do I feel behind right now, and what might God be developing in me through this season?

Continue the Journey

This devotional is part of Fresh Start: A Devotional Journey for the New Year.
Come back tomorrow for Day 7 — Becoming the Woman God Sees in You.

If this devotion encouraged you, consider sharing it with someone who needs reassurance today.