**Embracing the Art of Waiting**
Have you ever felt stuck, waiting for something to happen? Whether it’s waiting for a dream to unfold, a loved one to return, or a challenge to pass, waiting can be a daunting experience. But what if I told you that waiting is not just a necessary evil, but an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to deepen your faith?
The Bible reminds us that “those who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31, KJV). Waiting is not about being passive; it’s about actively trusting in God’s plan, even when we can’t see the outcome.
Think of Abraham, who waited 13 years for God’s promise to be fulfilled. Or Isaac, who waited 20 years for his wife Rebecca to have children. Even Moses, who spent 40 years in the desert before delivering his people from Egyptian bondage. These heroes of faith didn’t let waiting discourage them; instead, they used it as a time to discipline themselves, to focus on God, and to prepare for the promises that were to come.
So, how can we make waiting more enjoyable? I learned a valuable lesson at the airport once, where a delayed flight turned into an opportunity for connection and laughter. Instead of complaining, a group of passengers started playing cards together, turning their wait into a joyful experience. It reminded me that waiting is not about doing nothing; it’s about committing ourselves to our faithful Creator and continuing to do good.
**Turning Waiting into Worship**
While we wait, we can:
* Focus on Scripture promises of God’s faithfulness
* Continue to work, plant, and water, anticipating the harvest
* Keep hope alive by trusting in God’s goodness
* Practice patient waiting, knowing it’s often the highest way of doing God’s will
As Bishop Collier of the 17th Century wrote, “Patient waiting is often the highest way of doing God’s will.” And John Milton echoed this sentiment in his poem “Upon His Blindness”: “They also serve who only stand and wait.”
**God’s Presence in Our Waiting**
The truth is, God is present in our waiting. When we surrender our timelines and trust in His plan, He will come through, even if it’s not in the way we expect. As Isaiah 30:18 reminds us, “Blessed are all who wait for him, for the LORD is a God of justice.”
So, the next time you find yourself waiting, remember that it’s not a waste of time. It’s an opportunity to deepen your faith, to trust in God’s goodness, and to experience His presence in your life.
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