PLUGGED INTO GOD IN WAITING TIME
“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
(Isaiah 40:31 NIV)
The long waiting periods often feel difficult and confusing, but in the Bible, God uses these waiting times for a greater purpose. Here are some reasons why God often allows waiting periods and how we can know what to do during that time:
1. Building Character and Faith
- Why does God allow it?
Waiting is an opportunity to strengthen our character and faith. During the waiting period, we learn patience, faithfulness, and trusting God even when we don’t see immediate results. For example, Abraham learned to trust God’s promise even though he had to wait years for its fulfillment.
- What should we do?
Focus on developing a character that aligns with God’s will. Be patient and persevere in faith, even when things are unexpected. Take time to draw closer to God through prayer and reading His Word.
2. Preparation for a Greater Task or Blessing
- Why does God allow it?
Waiting is often a time of preparation. God may be preparing us for greater responsibilities or blessings in the future. Just like Joseph, who endured years of hardship before he was prepared to lead Egypt.
- What should we do?
Use the waiting period to prepare yourself. Learn new skills, improve your character, or strengthen your faith. Focus on the things you can do now so that you are ready when the waiting period ends.
3. Building Dependence on God
- Why does God allow it?
Waiting teaches us to truly depend on God rather than relying on our strength. Like in the story of Moses, he had to wait 40 years in the wilderness of Midian before being called by God to lead Israel out of Egypt. The waiting period taught Moses to fully depend on God’s guidance.
- What should we do?
Train your heart to continuously depend on God. Don’t try to rush the process with your strength or feel discouraged. Instead, learn to trust God with the future while remaining faithful during the waiting period.
4. Guarding the Heart from Pride or Immaturity
- Why does God allow it?
The waiting period helps us reflect on our motivations and purify our hearts. In 1 Peter 5:6, we are reminded to humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand, and at the right time, He will lift us. During the waiting period, God may be working to cleanse us of pride or immaturity that could hinder us from receiving His blessings.
- What should we do?
Regularly examine our hearts. Are we waiting for God’s blessings with pure motives? Are there attitudes or behaviors that we need to change before we receive what we are waiting for? Humble yourself before God and allow Him to work within you.
5. Learning About God’s Timing
- Why does God allow it?
God’s timing is often different from what we desire. He knows what’s best for us, when we are ready to receive something, and when the circumstances around us are prepared. Waiting teaches us to surrender to God’s perfect timing, just as Hannah did in her wait for a child.
- What should we do?
Train yourself to be patient and trust that God’s timing is always better than our own. Instead of focusing on “when” things will happen, focus on deepening your relationship with God, which will enable you to receive everything with peace and joy.
6. Experiencing Spiritual Transformation
- Why does God allow it?
During the waiting period, God often brings about spiritual transformation in our lives. Like in the story of Job, through suffering and waiting, he gained a deeper understanding of who God truly is and experience a closer relationship with Him. Job 42:5 says, “My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you.”
- What should we do?
Use the waiting period as a time for reflection and deepening your relationship with God. Be open to the lessons God wants to teach, and allow Him to transform your heart and mind.
How to Know What to Do During the Waiting Period
1. Pray and Seek God’s Will
Take time to pray, seek God’s will, and listen for His voice. Sometimes God gives clear direction through His Word or through the prompting of the Holy Spirit about the steps you need to take.
2. Faithful in Daily Responsibilities
Like David, who continued to be a shepherd and lived his daily life even though he had been anointed as king, we must remain faithful in our current duties and responsibilities.
3. Bless Others During the Waiting
Shift the focus from yourself and begin blessing others. The waiting period can be an opportunity to serve and strengthen others who are also going through their processes.
4. Trust in God’s Plan and Timing
Acknowledge that there are many things beyond our control, but we can entrust everything to God. Romans 8:28 reminds us that God works in all things for the good of those who love Him.
Source: Ps. Dave Rustanto (Global Prayer Coordinator)
