"Breakthrough describes a leap forward, progress, improvement, discovery, gain, and increase, but how do we position ourselves to go there?" Kathy Spampinato

There are situations in life where we need a breakthrough! The problem is not resolving and we are stuck. We can't see the way out, but staying in the here and now is not an option: it is unbearable. This could describe a job where you feel demeaned or a relationship where you see your confidence and self-esteem shrinking. It could be a family member with severe health problems or a loneliness that paralyzes you. Something has got to give! You just need to escape! Breakthrough describes a leap forward, progress, improvement, discovery, gain, and increase, but how do we position ourselves to go there? Where do we find hope and a new perspective on our problem? There is a scripture verse that talks about being in the middle of this stagnant place.

Proverbs 13:12 ESV "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life."

When our heart feels sick we cry out to God to change things, and rescue us. The Bible declares that God is a very present help in times of trouble. That's what we need; someone who is there for us, helping to encourage us and change the situation, providing a new direction and a new hope. The prophet Daniel called out to God in prayer for the people, while they were in captivity. He repented and pleaded with God for relief on behalf of his people, but the result wasn't happening fast enough. Here is part of the story.

Daniel 9: 20-23 "While I was speaking and praying, confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my plea before the Lord my God... the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the first, came to me in swift flight... He made me understand, speaking with me and saying, "O Daniel, I have now come out to give you insight and understanding. At the beginning of your pleas for mercy a word went out, and I have come to tell it to you, for you are greatly loved. Therefore consider the word and understand the vision."

Daniel 10:12-14 "Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, ... and (I) came to make you understand what is to happen to your people in the latter days."

When Daniel was feeling desperate and didn't understand what was happening or what he should do, God sent the angel Gabriel to bring comfort and understanding. God will do the same for you! He will bring comfort and understanding. I believe when the Bible says angels are sent to help, although I have never seen one. They are on assignment. A word from God has come to me from the Bible, or from a still, small voice spoken to my heart. It is the word of encouragement or comfort I have been needing and seeking. It is the hope of change or an idea that brings resolution. It is the peace that surpasses understanding.

Sometimes the answer to our prayers takes awhile, but we can trust that the prayer is heard. This passage shows us that it is answered as soon as we set our heart to understand and we humble ourselves, trusting God with our lives. Sometimes there is a delay because of a spiritual battle, as in Daniel's story, or because God is working on other people's hearts and minds. We do not know all the pieces to the puzzle, but we can strengthen our hope and decide to trust. When we rely on God, He is faithful to us.

Psalm 31: 24 "Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!"

Psalm 130: 5-6a, 7 "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more that watchmen for the morning. O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption."

As I close, I pray this verses for you today! God is with you, and He understands.

Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy spirit you may abound in hope."