For me the anwer is to live in the moment. Right now the only thing I need concern myself with is what is in front of me, and who is in front of me, and to answer these things according to God's loving ways as best I can, trusting in Jesus to enable me, and looking to Jesus to correct me, and continue to renew me.
I know just what you mean, things take so long, but that also means, nothing is actually happening to me right now, more just the threat of something. When something is actually happening, then in that moment, that's when I reach to God for help concerning that thing.
My supply seems short, but that's OK, God gives me what I need right now, so it must be enough. Time, money, strength, wisdom, God will give as I need.
And my sense of His presence, yes, there have been the times that I've been overwhelmed with His nearness, and His loving kindness, and it seems the greater the physical pain, the greater that sense. So I don't so much mind the times of great pain, He meets me there. But I'm not asking Him for more, only, whatever He sees fit for me.
My trust is that He is here with me, strenghening my heart for Him, and it's when I focus on that truth, I more readily feel Him near me.
I try to not get to focused on the circumstances, only, just this moment, and, communion with God, and, If you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you.
Much love!