By: Linda Grabeman
Waiting. Who enjoys that?
Our impatience fumes when the pace is S, L, O, W. Delays to our desired destination infuriate us whether they are traffic jams, post office lines or unanswered prayers. We scream:
Can’t.
You.
Hurry.
Up?
If we’re honest we’ve silently asked God that same question: “Really God, what’s the hold up?”
I know that statement well. Last weekend my restless nature and God’s piercing eyes had an encounter and it was a necessary but grueling examination of my heart and all that held sway over it. No details but a big hint: Studying Abraham, Isaac, and an altar began this long moment with the Almighty.
Emotionally and spiritually I trudged that three-day trek up the mountain to the altar. But coming down the other side, I can only give praise. My heart, once burdened now felt buoyant. I invite you into a snippet of the dialogue of that journey.
Waiting is discouraging. Waiting can cause either dread or joy because its conclusion is unknown. Here’s the problem: When God is silent, Satan runs his mouth. He lures us down his “What If?” trail, the creepiest, pea-soupy footpath ever. As we follow, he is blabbering about the worst-case scenarios we’re about to meet if we wait on God.
God asked me, “Do you not think I have perfect power and authority over this, Linda? Do I ever say, ‘That’s too much for Me. You’ll have to call on someone else for this hard job?’” I had to admit He never had.
Waiting reminds us of the patience of God.
Waiting is unmanageable. We like control. Give us the driver’s seat every time. Process is a hard concept for me. Each detail built on the last one fascinates and annoys me at the same time. I usually take shortcuts. I’m always sorry. Here’s what God impressed on my heart, “It had to be like this. I had to exhaust all your earthly provisions. You need to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your God orchestrated this because I share My glory with no other.”
Waiting reminds us of the sovereignty of God.
Waiting feels uncaring. Over and over we ask. We plead. Maybe even promise Him our good behavior or try to make a deal. Why aren’t we there yet? When we’ve reached our limit, we believe the worst about God. He is either too small or He is mean. And all the while He aches for our broken hearts. Longs for the time He can show us all that He has prepared.
Waiting reminds us of the compassion of God.
So, how about you? Where are you begging God to move? Demanding He answer your prayers. Now. Where have put your faith in earthly provision instead of trusting the Lord? Any place you’ve thought God is acting small or mean? Then join me in the frustrating but necessary process of letting go. It’s always been in His hands anyway.