How to Trust God’s Timing After Rejection
- Marshalee Patterson
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
Rejection can feel like a final verdict—that your past defines you, that your efforts are never enough, or that you’ll always be left behind. But when you belong to God, rejection is not the end of your story. It can be the place where healing begins and faith is reborn.
In my novel Life’s Journey Our Greatest Test, the character Shawn wrestles with the pain of rejection after trying to turn his life around.

Inspired by a real-life experience, his story offers a glimpse into what it’s like to face closed doors—even when your heart is in the right place—and how learning to trust God’s timing brings hope where there once was despair.
💔 1. Rejection Doesn’t Mean God Has Rejected You
Shawn faces repeated rejection as he tries to find work and support his family. Despite turning over a new leaf, people only see his past. Can you relate? Sometimes it feels like no one sees your heart or your growth—they only see your mistakes.
But here’s the truth:
God sees beyond your past. He knows your efforts, your tears, your repentance. His love isn’t based on public approval—it’s based on grace.
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18
Shawn’s Aunt Marie reminds him that trust in God isn’t always about what we see immediately—it’s about who we know Him to be. And that’s something we grow into, especially in seasons of waiting.
⏳ 2. Waiting is a Test of Trust
When the doors stay shut, it’s easy to doubt. But sometimes God uses the delay to refine us, shape our faith, and prepare us for what’s ahead.
Aunt Marie shares a powerful scripture that has sustained her during hard times, and it speaks volumes to Shawn—and to anyone feeling forgotten by God:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine... When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned... For I am the Lord your God... You are precious in My sight... Fear not, for I am with you.” —Isaiah 43:1–5

This passage isn’t just poetic—it’s a promise. It reminds us that God’s presence doesn’t leave us, even in the fire. And when we feel most alone, He is closest.
Shawn eventually breaks down and prays from his heart. He asks God to help him resist the temptation to fall back into his old ways. He repents, surrenders, and pleads for purpose. And in that moment, even without immediate change, his faith is reborn.
🙏🏽 3. Prayer Unlocks Perspective
Real healing and strength often begin with an honest conversation with God. Shawn’s turning point didn’t come with a job offer—it came with a cry for help. When he prayed, God met him right where he was—broken, afraid, and unsure.
Sometimes the answer to rejection isn’t a sudden breakthrough—it’s the faith to believe God is still writing your story.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” —Proverbs 3:5–6
You may not have all the answers, but you can trust the One who does. And when you trust Him, even rejections become redirections—steering you toward something greater.
📺 Watch the Moment: Want to see how this powerful conversation plays out in the story?👉 Watch the video snippet below of Shawn and Aunt Marie’s conversation.
📚 Want More?
Shawn’s journey in Life’s Journey: Our Greatest Test explores this battle deeply. If you’re wrestling with rejection, struggling to trust God’s timing, or searching for purpose, this story will encourage you and help you see how God can redeem even the darkest seasons.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Learning to trust God’s timing after rejection is one of the hardest parts of the Christian journey—but it’s also where some of the most beautiful transformation happens. Rejection might have closed a door, but God is still opening a way—one that leads to healing, restoration, and renewed purpose.
Keep praying. Keep trusting. And keep moving forward.
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