A man was awakened from sleep one night by the Lord, who showed him a huge rock in front of his cabin.

The Lord said, "Push against that rock with all your might." The man did so. For years. Hours each day he toiled in sun, rain and snow. Each night he would be sore and worn out, thinking he had worked in vain because the rock never moved.

He said, "Lord, I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength in doing what you asked. But I haven't budged that rock an inch. What's wrong? Why am I failing?"

The Lord answered: "My friend, when I asked you to serve me and push that rock with all your strength, you obeyed. I didn't tell you to move it--just push against it. You think you've wasted your time. But look at yourself.

Your arms are strong and muscled. Your back is sinewy and brown. Your hands are callused from constant pressure and your legs have become massive and solid.

You have grown and your abilities have increased a hundred-fold. You have been obedient. You trusted my wisdom. Now I'll move the rock for you."

You know, good friend, sometimes we hear from the Lord and we obey and nothing seemingly happens. But all God wants is our obedience and faith in Him.