Imagine being promised greatness by God, as David was when he was anointed to be the king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13). Yet, after receiving this promise, David found himself back in the fields tending sheep. Was this stagnation? When God's promise takes time to manifest, does it mean we are stagnant?
According to the dictionary, stagnation is a state where there is no movement, growth, or development, often due to a blockage. Many people misinterpret seasons of waiting as stagnation, not recognising the subtle progress happening around them. In nature, a body of water may appear still on the surface, yet a leaf floating in it may reveal a gentle current. Similarly, God is often working in our lives in ways that may not seem obvious at first.
After David was anointed, he returned to shepherding. Imagine being told you would become a king, only to find yourself back in the fields. Later, he was called to serve in King Saul's palace as a musician, not as a ruler. The promise was for kingship, not musicianship, but this was not stagnation—it was preparation. God was training David in the ways of the kingdom, showing him the dynamics of royalty, even as he played music for the current king (1 Samuel 16:21-23).
This stage in David’s life teaches us that sometimes what appears to be delay or even misdirection is actually God’s way of preparing us. David was learning essential lessons that would serve him later as a king. As Psalm 37:23 says, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” Even when it didn’t look like he was advancing toward kingship, God was leading David step by step.
True stagnation happens when there is no movement, and spiritually, this means there is no life. Stagnation can occur when we are disconnected from God’s presence and His Word. But as long as we are aligned with God’s Spirit, there is life and movement, even if it seems slow. “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life” (John 6:63). The Word of God is a constant source of vitality, keeping us in a flow of purpose and progress.
David’s journey was filled with challenges: he faced Goliath, endured King Saul’s jealousy, and even hid in caves to save his life (1 Samuel 18:7-9, 1 Samuel 22:1). These hardships might seem like obstacles to God’s promise, but they were divine processes shaping him for his ultimate role. “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4). Like refining fire, God’s process often feels like rejection or delay, yet it is the very means by which He molds us for His purposes.
Each challenge David faced prepared him for a higher responsibility. When he defeated Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-47), he wasn’t just winning a battle; he was stepping into his purpose. Similarly, the trials we face today could be refining us for future responsibilities in God’s Kingdom.
Our lives may have seasons that feel inactive or stagnant, but every answered prayer, every step forward, and every lesson learned is a sign of God’s work within us. Jesus shared a parable about a tree that bore no fruit and how its owner checked on it, expecting growth (Luke 13:6-9). God likewise expects fruit from us in every season, but many do not yield to his word and his workings and do not produce . Even when we do not produce do not give up stay rooted and faithful to His Word.
Many people struggle with what seems to be stagnation, but often it’s a mis-perception. The true issue may be not recognising the small steps that are leading us forward. Sometimes, these steps are as simple as learning to serve where we are, as David did in Saul’s palace. When we skip or ignore these steps, we risk delaying God’s purpose in our lives. “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones” (Luke 16:10).
My prayer for you is that God aligns you to His Word and His will, helping you see every subtle movement of growth and progress. May you embrace each step of preparation, and may God’s presence be evident in your journey. Like David, may you be strengthened through every process, ultimately stepping into the fullness of what God has promised you.
In Jesus' name, may you see the manifestation of God’s promises in your life. Amen.