Waiting for God's presence, His answers, or His guidance can be challenging. Following the insights from our previous discussions on welcoming Christ and preparing the way for Him, this article explores what we can do in these times of anticipation. Whether it's the beginning of a new year, a new chapter in life, or just a new day, the wait for God’s movement is a universal experience, timeless in its relevance, and rich in transformation.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in the Waiting Season
These behaviors can make waiting harder, stunt our growth, and work against seeing God move in our lives.
Unforgiveness and Selfishness: The Bible says that these things can hinder our prayers.
Unforgiveness: Holding onto unforgiveness can impede our prayers and spiritual progress.
Selfish Motives: Prayers motivated by selfish desires may not align with God's will.
Complaining: While it may feel comforting, habitual complaining fosters a negative mindset that blinds us to the blessings and lessons in our waiting period. Apart from that, and the number of verses that tell us not to, God doesn't like it. The Israelites found that out the hard way.
Limited Expectations: Assuming there’s only one way for God to answer or intervene limits our ability to see His broader work. Embrace the understanding that God’s ways are higher, and His plans are often beyond our imagination. Exceedingly and abundantly!
Self-Loathing and Shame: Clinging to past mistakes or living in shame hinders our ability to fully trust in God’s forgiveness and love. Remember, God desires to uplift and redeem, not condemn. Shame is a shackle, and if you don't see yourself as a beloved, cherished child of God, your faith will be divided by doubt. And "That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." James 1:7
By staying vigilant against behaviors that can cloud our spiritual sight and embracing actions that align us closer to God, we position ourselves to not only endure the wait but also to emerge from it spiritually enriched and transformed.
7 Ways to Embrace the Wait
1. Live on Prayer and Worship
In moments of waiting, let prayer and worship be your sanctuary. Here, you find the strength to rise above the challenges, drawing closer to God’s comforting presence.
"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
2. Immerse Yourself in the Word
Dive into scripture, allowing it to be your guiding light in times of uncertainty. God’s Word offers wisdom, peace, and clarity amidst life's storms.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105)
3. Serve Others Actively
Shift your focus outward and channel your energy into serving others. Serving others can bring unexpected joy and perspective during your own season of waiting, fulfilling purpose in blessing those around you.
Scripture: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10)
4. Practice Gratitude and Reflection
Cultivate a heart of gratitude. Reflecting on the blessings in your life, even amidst trials, can nurture a spirit of hope and resilience.
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
5. Cultivate Patience and Trust
Embrace patience and trust as you wait. Remember, God's timing is always perfect, even when it feels like a mystery.
"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him..." (Psalm 37:7)
6. Seek Godly Counsel and Community
Surround yourself with supportive brothers and sisters in Christ. Shared wisdom, understanding, and encouragement can be lifelines during challenging times.
"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14)
7. Embrace Personal Growth and Learning
This waiting period will serve as an opportunity for personal growth. You can lean into it by evaluating and enhancing your spiritual disciplines, attending a workshop, or reading inspiring Christian literature.
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)
Embracing the Wisdom of 'Qavah' in Our Waiting
In understanding what to do while we wait on God, the Hebrew concept of 'qavah', the Hebrew word for "wait," offers profound insights. Discussed in a previous article, The Symbolism in Qavah: A Pictographic Wisdom of Waiting on God, 'qavah' encompasses much more than passive waiting. It invites us into an active endurance, a strengthening of faith as we stretch and grow in anticipation of God’s plans. This ancient wisdom teaches us that waiting is an integral part of our spiritual journey, filled with purpose and growth.
'Qavah' symbolizes the beautiful tension of waiting – a time where our connection to God is deepened and our trust in His perfect timing is fortified. Knowing the roots of 'qavah' can transform our perspective, encouraging us to see these periods not as stagnant pauses but as opportunities for spiritual enrichment and closer communion with God.
As you navigate your waiting season, remember that it's a path laced with potential for growth, discovery, and deeper communion with God. Each day is an opportunity to strengthen your faith, broaden your understanding, and prepare your heart for the beautiful unfolding of God's plans. In the wait, there is wisdom, and in the stillness, there is learning. Remember, His timing is perfect, and His plans for you are worth the wait. Stay encouraged, knowing that in God's time, new seasons of life and new blessings will unfold.
Prayer to Wait Patiently on God
I'm trying to be patient, Lord. I've seen and heard testimonies of your perfect timing and the exceedingly abundant blessings for those who have faith in you and waited for you. And that's the story I'll tell. I'll testify then, and I'll testify now of how you keep those who trust you in perfect peace. I love you. What can I do for you while I wait for you? If my desire to see my prayer's answer has overshadowed my desire to see your will be done through my life, please forgive me Father. I am blessed to know you. May my life be a blessing to those you've placed in my life. Give me eyes, ears, and a heart to recognize every opportunity that you give me to be an extension of your Kingdom and shine your light before men. In Jesus's name I pray, Amen.
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