I often find myself reflecting on the idea of waiting on the Lord. Waiting can seem frustrating in our fast-paced world, where immediate results and quick fixes are highly prized. My personality is to get in and fix things as soon as possible. So, it’s not easy when I have to wait days, weeks, or months for something. I can start to get anxious very quickly.
What is more, this happens even when waiting to get into a doctor, have my car looked at, or have someone write me back. Yet, the Bible consistently teaches us the value of waiting on God. His timing is unquestionably perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our schedules.
By no means does waiting on the Lord imply sitting idly by in anticipation of divine intervention. Rather, it’s an active waiting. It specifically involves trusting in God’s plans, a commitment to prayer, and a willingness to listen and obey. It’s surely about getting our hearts in line with God’s will. We must seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives and trust He knows what is best for us.
Patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and is integral to waiting on the Lord. It’s about maintaining faith during periods of waiting and uncertainty. With this in mind, we need to be patient and acknowledge God’s sovereignty. And accept that His understanding surpasses our own. This is not a passive resignation. Instead, it’s an active embrace of God’s timing.
He’s Preparing Us
Stories of waiting fill the Bible. Abraham waited years for a son. Joseph remained in prison before being raised to a position of authority. David waited to become king. Each of these people demonstrated that waiting on God often prepares us for the roles He has planned for us.
Waiting periods can be powerful times of personal growth and spiritual deepening. They are opportunities to deepen our trust in God. Additionally, we grow in our understanding of His character. We also develop perseverance. As James 1:4 says, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Three Practicals While Waiting
Prayer and Reflection: Use this time to deepen your relationship with God through prayer and meditation on His Word.
Serve Others: Often, through serving, we find clarity and purpose in our waiting.
Community Support: Lean on your Small Group or other Christians around you. Share your journey of waiting with trusted friends or mentors who can offer support and wisdom.
Finally, remember that waiting on the Lord brings peace. It may not be easy, and it certainly isn’t always comfortable. But, a profound peace comes from trusting in God’s timing. As Isaiah 40:31 promises, those who wait on the Lord “will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Waiting on the Lord is an integral part of our Christian walk. It is a journey marked by trust, growth, and deepening faith. In waiting times, remember to seek the Lord, serve others, and embrace the peace that comes from trusting in His perfect timing.
Waiting,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor