While We Wait…
Wait patiently for the Lord.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.
Psalm 27:14 (NLT)
Are you waiting for some good news, and perhaps wondering if it will ever come? If so, I hope the words in today’s post will encourage you.
I was once told the question most commonly asked in the Bible is “How long?” and the command given most often is, “Be strong and courageous.” While I am not a Bible scholar and cannot confirm this information, it makes sense to me!
I have prayed my share of “How long?” prayers. Often, I followed up with another question, such as, “Have you heard me, God?” or “God, do you care?”
No doubt about it. Waiting is tough!
The other day, I was reminded of a situation I have been praying about for many years. To be truthful, the answer I desire seems further away than ever, and I’m tempted to ask, Hey, God! Was I wrong to think my prayer is reasonable? How long before you come through with some type of answer, some glimmer of hope?
At least for now, I don’t plan to yield to temptation and ask those questions. Once again, I commit to wait rather than worry.
It takes courage to wait! So, what might help us in the waiting? These thoughts come to mind:
Recall how God has been faithful to show up in past periods of waiting. This has happened so many times in my journey of faith.
Focus on God’s never-changing and always-faithful character.
An insight I heard several years ago helps: God never shows up quickly, but God always shows up suddenly!
Rather than succumbing to discouragement and frustration, invite the Holy Spirit to germinate and grow seeds of divine fruit within us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)
Persistent prayer is vital. Don’t give up! Always remember the words of Jesus:
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7 NLT)
Blessings while we wait,
