Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord” – Psalm 27:14.
Waiting is often seen as a passive, even weak action in our busy-paced world. We’re conditioned to believe immediate action is always the best course. But this Psalm, written by David, challenges this notion, calling us to “wait patiently for the Lord” and reminding us that waiting can be an act of bravery and courage.
Waiting on God isn’t about sitting idly by, twiddling our thumbs. It’s an active posture of faith, trust, and expectation. It requires immense strength and courage to resist the urge to take matters into our own hands, to trust in God’s timing rather than our own, and to remain steadfast in the face of uncertainty.
Consider the heroes of faith throughout Scripture. Noah waited years for the flood, Abraham waited decades for a son, Joseph waited in prison before his rise to power, and David waited years to become king after his anointing. These weren’t passive periods of inactivity but times of significant preparation, growth, and deepening trust in God, offering hope and optimism for the future.
When we wait on the Lord, we declare our dependence on Him. We acknowledge that our strength, wisdom, and resources are limited, but His are infinite. This humility and surrender take tremendous courage in a world that values self-reliance and instant gratification.
And understand that waiting doesn’t mean God is inactive. During these waiting periods, God often works behind the scenes, orchestrating events and preparing us for what’s to come. He’s shaping our character, refining our faith, and aligning our hearts with His will. His timing may not align with our expectations, but it is always perfect, ensuring the best outcome for us.
Remember, God will not waste the challenges you face. He is big enough to take whatever you’re going through right now and use it for training and preparation, for good, and for His glory later on down the road. Your current trial might be the very thing God uses to equip you for a future calling or to deepen your capacity to minister to others.
Waiting with courage means holding onto hope when circumstances seem hopeless. It means continuing to pray, worship, and serve even when we don’t see immediate results. It means trusting God’s promises are true, even when our feelings or the world suggest otherwise.
As you face your seasons of waiting, be encouraged. Your patience is not in vain, and your trust is not misplaced. God sees your faithfulness and is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in you. He has a plan for your waiting, leading to a brighter future.
Call to Action:
1. Practice Intentional Stillness: Set aside a few minutes each day this week to be still before God. Use this time to quiet your mind, listen for His voice, and reaffirm your trust in His timing.
2. Journal Your Wait: Start a “waiting journal.” Each day, write down one way you’ve seen God at work in your current season of waiting. This practice will help you maintain perspective and recognize God’s ongoing activity in your life.
3. Act in Faith: Identify one area where you’ve hesitated to move forward due to uncertainty. Take a small step of faith in that area, trusting that God will guide your path as you move.
Remember, waiting on the Lord is not passive resignation but active, courageous trust. As you wait, may you find strength in His presence, hope in His promises, and peace in His perfect timing.
Heavenly Father, help us to embrace the strength and courage needed to wait patiently for You, trusting in Your perfect timing even when we’re tempted to act on our own. Teach us to see waiting as an act of faith and courage, filled with hope and expectation for what You are preparing. May we find peace in Your presence and confidence in Your promises, knowing that You are always at work in our lives, orchestrating everything for our good and Your glory. Amen.
Exploring Our Faith: Questions for Reflection
1. Why do you think waiting is often seen as a sign of weakness in today’s world?
2. What are some ways to practice patience while waiting for an answer or a change in your life?
3. How can we recognize God’s activity in our lives while we are waiting?