Finding Hope in the Waiting
In the midst of delayed dreams and unfulfilled desires, it’s easy to lose sight of God’s purpose. However, seasons of waiting can be a catalyst for growth, teaching us patience and perseverance. As we navigate these challenging times, we can find comfort in the words of Betsy Childs Howard, author of Seasons of Waiting: Walking by Faith When Our Dreams Are Delayed.
A Witness to the World
Our waiting is not just about us; it’s a witness to the world of God’s faithfulness. As Howard reminds us, “In every story of righteous waiting, God has hidden the secrets of the kingdom of heaven. Your waiting is meant to be a witness not only to yourself, but to the watching world.”
Longing for Home
Deep down, we’re all homesick for a place that’s not our own. As believers in Jesus, we’re citizens of heaven, and our longing for home is a reminder that this world is not our ultimate destination. As Howard notes, “We live on earth, but ‘we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells’ (2 Pet. 3:13).”
Finding Strength in Scripture
In times of trial, we crave the nourishment of Scripture. Just as our bodies need food to survive, our souls need the daily sustenance of God’s Word. Howard encourages us to seek strength in Scripture, reminding us that “the trials of our life that make us crave the life-giving sustenance of the daily nourishment of Scripture are like the hunger pains that drive us to the daily food our bodies need to survive.”
Leaning on the Lord
Our burdens exist to drive us to God, not away from Him. As Howard reminds us, “We can allow our waiting to drive us from God or to drive us to him. Our burdens exist to make us lean all our weight upon the Lord.” In times of need, we can cry out to God, trusting that He will draw near to help us.
A Heart of Tender Love
The gospel flows from God’s deepest heart for His people, a heart of tender love for the sinful and suffering. As we wait on God, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good, even in the midst of delayed dreams and unfulfilled desires.
Leave a Reply