When we think of waiting, we automatically think of idleness, inaction, lack of movement and consequently, lack of productivity. That sounds like a whole lot of lack or a lot of nothing, if you ask me. Nobody wants that, right?! I don’t know about you, but these are some of the ideas and attitudes that get in the way when it comes to me waiting on God. It’s not an easy thing to do, yet it is a very important Biblical concept.

I grew up with a mum who took her relationship with Jesus very seriously. I learnt a lot about walking with God from watching how she lived her life. So, I was introduced, indirectly, to the concept of waiting on God by her . Let me tell you, not only did I not understand it, it drove me nuts! For example, when it was decision time, especially the more important life-altering decisions, she would say let’s pray then wait and see. See what?! As far as I was concerned, that wasn’t how decisions were made.

You gathered information, weighed the pros and cons, perhaps asked for advice though not so much that you would drown in other people’s opinions then picked the best possible option just like she and my dad had taught us. I did not understand this seemingly redundant step of ‘waiting on God’. Decades later, when I accepted Christ into my life, I slowly began to understand her – slowly being the operative word. Though I still find waiting on God challenging at times, it’s easier than it was in the past. There’s an unequivocal trust in God that I now enjoy that I didn’t before.

Impatience, desire for control, doubt and sometimes just plain curiosity would have me running back to Jesus again and again. “Lord, it’s me again. Remember that thing we spoke about some moments ago. I really want to know your thoughts. I am asking for these very good and specific reasons. Do you have an answer for me yet? No, not even a clue?! Okay, I’ll check back in shortly. If you will, could you let me know by this time pretty please. Thank you, God!” 😄  Isn’t it wonderful that God doesn’t get impatient with us?! 

At other times, I would pray about something concerning my family or friends or myself or some kind of issue. After praying, I would feel peace in my heart or sense God saying, “It is well,” or “It is done.” Yet, I would still fret because I wanted specifics or I would agonize over timelines. I wanted signs and confirmation. I wanted reassurance all the time. Through it all, God was ever patient and loving as He taught and corrected me. Over the years, I have had many chances to learn how to wait on the Lord as I have matured in my walk with the Lord. Here are a few of the things I’ve learnt.

Wait Actively

Waiting on God isn’t a passive effort. It is not simply delaying a decision or an action until such a time when it is right. It involves actively seeking God: spending time with Jesus; asking Him the tough questions you may be grappling with; intently searching out God’s heart and plans for you; and worshipping Him through it all. God remains good, unchanging, sovereign and faithful regardless of the season we’re in or what we’re facing so waiting on Him means acknowledging Him and submitting to His timing and design for us.

Rely on the Word

The Bible is full of wisdom and practical life lessons. Not only that, it is the Word of God, so it is like God speaking directly to us. From it, we can learn God’s thoughts, His character, His heart, His ways, His power, His designs for us and more.

For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. 
It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart 
Hebrews 4:12 AMP. 

Reading what God says in the Bible and putting it into practice is a good way to wait. If ever I am unsure of what to do, that’s the first place to turn to. When I want to make sure that my plans, my decision, my actions or my life are pleasing to my Heavenly Dad, I check to see that they are aligned with scripture. When I need to talk to God and words fail me, the Bible helps with that too.

Step out in Faith

I remember that when I first got saved, I used to want God to ratify pretty much every decision. I loved it. As I got ready in the morning, I’d ask Him which outfit He thought I should wear. When I made plans for the weekend, I would ask what He thought I should do and with whom I should spend my time. I would be so delighted when He responded. It was a great way to build intimacy with and trust in Him. However, when I didn’t receive that seal of approval I yearned for, I’d become a little paralysed in my decision-making. 

I wanted a specific yes or no or wait. Then a mature lady advised me that when my plans are aligned with God’s Word and God is silent when I ask Him about them, perhaps that’s an invitation to step out in faith and act. Ultimately, walking with God is about relationship. God is not some tyrannical overlord who does not leave room for our hopes or opinions or desires. On the contrary, He wants us to live in joy and peace; He wants to bless us. At times like that, it’s okay to take a leap of faith and trust that God has got your back.

Know His Voice

Jesus has also taught me He is the Good Shepherd who guides, leads and protects me and it is for me to trust and follow Him. He says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27 NIV) That means it’s important to know and recognise His voice when He speaks then follow and obey what He says. Take time to know God’s voice intimately and recognise it from all other voices – yours, other people’s, and the enemy Satan.

Be Content in Christ

Many times, we ask for something and we do not get it. You pray for a sick loved one but they get worse and then pass away. You believe for a job opportunity that could change your life and would be the answer to many of your challenges but you get passed over for it. You’re in a challenging relationship and trust God to turn it around but things keep getting worse. When I have been faced with such challenging events, I have learnt that Christ Himself is the answer for me.

When things stop making sense, He still is my portion and my inheritance. He still is Healer, Provider, Protector, and Vindicator. While that may not minimise or remove what I am facing, He gives me the grace and strength to face and go through it. What’s more, I have hope for the future in Him. 

Believe Him

Lastly, I have learnt that when God says He will do something, it is done. While I wait for it to manifest, I can find joy in worshipping Him. I can also be encouraged by what He said, finding peace while I wait. For example, I was looking at my grandmother’s photo on my bedside, thinking of her and admiring her beautiful smile one time. I had visited her and wasn’t sure when I would be able to visit again. See, she is advanced in years, so every moment I get to spend with her is very special. It could very well be the last. I remember thinking, “I hope to see that beautiful smile again,” and God immediately said, “You shall see it again.” 

I didn’t even question it. In my heart of hearts, I was persuaded beyond a shadow of doubt that I would. It was an answer to a prayer I hadn’t even consciously prayed. It was an Isaiah 65:24 moment – before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear. I have seen my gran many times since. More than I would have dreamed or dared to ask.

As we speak, I am in another season of waiting. Actually, being a Christian involves a lot of waiting on God, in my humble opinion, and these reminders have been helpful and uplifting. I am encouraged as I continue to watch and wait to see what God will say and do. I hope you’ll find them uplifting and encouraging too.

Love,