In His Perfect Time

My childhood school experience was difficult at times because I was a late bloomer. I was on par with my peers—except when it came to developing the physical aspects of becoming a woman. How I longed for those feminine markers, and I waited with great anticipation to be able to be like the other girls, all of whom wore brassieres and seemed to fill them voluptuously. I was bullied for something I had no control over. I remember one church lady saying, “You are a nice girl, but your chest is just too flat. If only it wasn’t.” This was done in the presence of others, and one of my male peers took the baton and ran around calling me “chicken chest” for the rest of that Sabbath afternoon. I was so conscious of my lack in that department that in the seventh and eighth grades, I began to stuff my bra with socks and tissue.

When the appointed time dictated by my biology and genetics had come, I began to notice some beautiful changes in my body. It would be fair to say that I no longer needed to fill my bra with socks and tissues. I have realized that it is still possible to make adolescent mistakes as an adult. I do this whenever I compare myself against the apparent success of others, not accepting the uniqueness of God’s timing for my life.

Sometimes I am tempted to succumb to the temptation to fake it to fit in. Internalizing hurt from the subtle comparisons of critics is another mistake.

As women of God, we know each of us is unique.

We are not to compare our paths and purposes with others.

Second Corinthians 10:12 tells us that people who do these things are not wise. We must avoid listening to any bullying banter and focus instead on God’s promises to us. A wise woman of God trusts that her life and purpose are unique and waits for God’s timing. Have you been upset over God’s timing in providing what you think you lack? Are your peers getting married, having children, going off to school, or achieving success? Remember, at the appointed time, God will bless you in His unique way. The once barren areas of your life will become fruitful and grow beautifully in His love. Trust His perfect time for you.

Judelia Medard-Santiesteban