Waiting on God

I came to a conclusion this weekend. As much as I would like it to be so, “waiting patiently on God” will never end this side of heaven. It seems as soon as I rejoice at seeing a prayer answered, something else is thrown out of reach and the prayers begin anew…and I’m waiting—again.

And actually, when I think about it, it’s not one thing after another. It’s several things overlapping one another, some taking years to play out, others weeks or months. But no matter the length of time, somehow it’s never easy.

Funny how God knew our flesh would find it hard. Thus, He reminds us over and over in His Word that it’s part of our walk with Him. “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD” (Psalm 27:14 NASB). “Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7). “My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken (Psalm 62:5-6).

But He does more than charge us to wait. He gives us promises to hang onto. Here are only a few: “The LORD favors those who fear Him, those who wait for His lovingkindness” (Psalm 147:11). “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him” (Lamentations 3:25). And I love that God “acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him” (Isaiah 64:4).

As much as my flesh cries out when it’s forced to wait, my spirit rejoices. When I’m waiting, I’m praying more. I wake up seeking God and lie in bed at night pondering His ways. I search the Scriptures for answers. When I’m waiting, I’m keenly aware of my need for Him, that apart from Him I can do nothing.

Are you waiting on the Lord? I’m not here to tell you that it’s easy. But I’ve learned—yes, painfully at times—that one word goes hand in hand with waiting: TRUST.

Heavenly Father, give me strength and patience to wait patiently on You. Help me to trust You, knowing that my times are in Your hands, and that You are acting on my behalf as I wait. Thank You that even though I may fret, You are working all things together for good, in Jesus’ name, Amen.