“This Isn’t What I Wanted”: Trusting God in Seasons of Disappointment
Disappointment has a way of creeping in quietly, often wrapped in the words we whisper when life doesn’t unfold the way we hoped: “This isn’t what I wanted.”
If you’ve found yourself in a season of unmet expectations, unanswered prayers, or confusion over God’s plan, know this: you’re not alone. And you’re not without hope.
The Struggle of Unmet Expectations
These words—“This isn’t what I wanted”—have left my lips more than once. When plans fall apart or dreams are delayed, it’s easy to feel the weight of disappointment settle into our hearts.
We may spend so much time hoping for the future that we begin scripting out how everything should go. And when those expectations aren’t met, we’re left wondering what went wrong—and why God didn’t intervene the way we wanted Him to.
When Doubt Creeps In
Maybe you’ve been faithfully seeking God in your decisions, praying for clarity, and trusting Him to lead… yet each path before you seems to vanish. And in that place of uncertainty, it’s tempting to question Him—even doubt Him.
But here’s the truth we must hold onto:
We are not in control.
We hear it in sermons. We read it in Scripture. But when our hearts are aching or our plans are crumbling, it’s easy to forget. We may think we’re holding the pen, but God is the true Author of our days.
“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” —Proverbs 16:9
God’s Faithfulness in the Waiting
You may be wondering:
Will my suffering end?
Why is this happening?
Why me?
While I don’t have all the answers, I do know this:
Disappointment is not a reason to turn from God. It’s an invitation to draw near.
Our heavenly Father sent His Son to rescue us before we even knew we needed saving (Romans 5:8). His love is not dependent on how well our lives are going. His faithfulness doesn’t shift with our circumstances.
Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we’ve been given redemption and eternal life. And His love is not only steadfast—it’s deeply personal.
What This Means for You Today
So what does this mean for us in our disappointment?
It means we can trust Him—
In the confusion.
In the waiting.
In the letting go.
Even when we whisper, “This isn’t what I wanted.”
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” —Proverbs 3:5-6
Our circumstances may not be what we expected. But God is still—and will always be—faithful.
Biblical Reflection Questions
Take time to reflect and draw near to God with these journal prompts:
Where in your life have you recently said, “This isn’t what I wanted?” Why? How can you shift your perspective using Scripture?
What verses or life moments remind you of God’s faithfulness? How can you return to them when doubt creeps in?
Who in your life needs to be reminded of this hope? How can you share it with them today?
Final Encouragement
God sees you in your pain. He hears the cries of your heart. And even when the story doesn’t unfold the way you imagined, He is still writing something good.
So today, choose to trust Him—even when it’s not what you wanted.
Meet the Author
Ashleigh Kusuma
Ashleigh traded the cornfields of Illinois for the coastal mountains of Bangor, Wales, after getting married last summer. This big life change led her and her husband to join their local church where they’ve found a faithful community. Ashleigh started her Master’s degree in English and Creative Writing in the fall, exploring human emotions and faith through her writing.
When she’s not writing essays or updating her blog, @forhispeople_ , she’s pouring coffee at her local cafe, chatting with the locals. She loves to bake, crochet, and go on long walks—especially when the sun is shining and daffodils are in bloom. Although she’s still adjusting to Welsh weather, she’s learned to appreciate rainy days with a cup of tea in one hand, and a good book in the other. Through her writing and other hobbies, she hopes to bring warmth and encouragement to those around her.
