How good are you at waiting? If you're inclined to say that you're not very good at it, you're not alone. When we're made to wait, so many of us revert to a childlike state, but instead of asking: "are we there yet?", we hear ourselves saying "is it here yet?", "when will this happen?", "how long will it take before...?"
In an age where we can order almost anything and be in receipt of it the same day, or in the case of food, within hours, waiting can become even more frustrating and alien to us. Getting effectively whatever we want, whenever we want can feed into the expectations we have of prayer and of God. If your favourite pizza place can get your order to your door in 30 minutes or less, then why does it sometimes feel like ages before God, the all-powerful creator, gets back to you?
True faith needs to be exempt from this consumerist framework. We should make sure that we're not thinking of God in the same vein as a pizza delivery worker, granting our every dough-based culinary wish, and that our approach to prayer doesn't draw too close a resemblance to how we'd use a customer service hotline.
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he said to his disciples: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about" (Acts 1:4).
The disciples did as Jesus commanded and were rewarded with the gift of the Holy Spirit, a gift so great they could have never imagined it. This passage is one of many that can remind us that "good things come to those who wait".
If you're currently waiting to hear from God or you find it difficult to wait on him, why not meditate on these five Bible verses to rediscover why it's worthwile.
Isaiah 40:31 - 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.
Psalm 31:14-15 - But I trust in you, Lord; I say, "You are my God. My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me."
James 5:7-8 - Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.
2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
Isaiah 30:18 - Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
