The Valley of Disappointment

James 5:7
“Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.”

In Atomic Habits, James Clear describes the frustration we feel between expectation and reality as the Valley of Disappointment. This valley often appears when we start something new. We immediately expect visible change—our schedules free up, the pounds drop, the six-pack appears.

But more often than not, the results trail behind the effort. In that moment, frustration sets in, and we’re tempted to quit.

It is in this valley that we must persevere. Clear points out that growth is usually exponential, not linear. This means we’re disappointed not only because progress feels slow at first, but also because we drastically underestimate what consistent perseverance can produce over time.

This connects directly to our spiritual lives. We often expect instant transformation and feel discouraged when it doesn’t happen. James encourages us to be patient—like the farmer, the prophets, and Job. Change may not happen overnight, but God is faithful and will bring it about in His time.

Reflect:

• Where are you feeling disappointed by a lack of results?

• Where are you showing up but not seeing change?

• Could you be in the valley—and could perseverance lead to more than you can imagine?

Pray:
God, help me keep showing up. Help me be patient and trust that You are working even when I can’t see it.