God often promises something to His children and then makes them wait years for the fulfillment. Noah was told to build an ark to save his family and preserve creation because God was going to cleanse the earth of evil. Noah had work to do while He waited for the flood to come, and God waited to send the flood until Noah’s part was complete. Abraham waited for God to fulfill His promise about giving him the land as an inheritance (though he did not see that in his lifetime), and he waited for God to give him a son, though his wife was barren. Joseph waited 13 years in prison, Moses waited 40 years in the wilderness with a discontent people go to the promised land, that he only was able to see from a distance, Israel waited thousands of years for the Messiah to come, and we have been waiting thousands of years for Him to return. Waiting is the norm for God’s people, instant results are the exception. We have examples all throughout scripture of people being obedient to God’s call and Him calling them to (sometimes long and often) times of waiting.
While we are waiting, our life goes on, as does God’s plan for our lives and His world. In fact, our wait is part of His plan.Our call to obedience is the same. Let us remind ourselves and each other what God calls us to do no matter what season of life we are in.
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you as well” (Matthew 6:33)
“Set your eyes on things above and not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2).
“Be content in all circumstances*. …”I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances*. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation*, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)
*Content… Even when you are waiting.
“Do everything* without complaining or arguing” (Phil. 2:14)
*Yep…even waiting.
“Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage–with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2)
*The phrase “out of season” even applies to times when you are worn out and weary of waiting.
“Do not Worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it’s own.” (Matthew 6: 34)
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
*Giving thanks in circumstances of prolonged waiting is definitely possible.
“Cast your cares upon the Lord, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7)
“Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)
“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9)
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” (Colossians 4:2)
I don’t know about you, but I get so fired up when God reminds me that His Truth remains steadfast in every new situation that I encounter! Whatever you are facing, whatever prayer you are waiting for: God’s Word and His promises stand firm!
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24)
~Kristin