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Years ago, several people told me I needed to wait upon the Lord. I didn’t understand the topic, so I studied God’s Word on “waiting” and learned the following. . .
- God’s Strength, Not Mine
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, ESV).
We can run, walk, and work hard without weariness if we wait for God and serve in the strength of Jesus.
- It Can Be an Excuse for Laziness
Don’t you remember the rule we had when we lived with you? “If you don’t work, you don’t eat.” And now we’re getting reports that a bunch of lazy good-for-nothings are taking advantage of you. This must not be tolerated. We command them to get to work immediately—no excuses, no arguments—and earn their own keep. Friends, don’t slack off in doing your duty (2 Thessalonians 3:11-13, MSG).
The Thessalonians became so enamored with what they thought would be the soon return of Jesus that they did nothing. They lounged around all day waiting. I appreciate the Message Version as it describes them as a “bunch of lazy g00d-for-nothings.”
- Not Inactivity, but Preparation
Often, the New Testament emphasizes proper preparation. In Matthew 25, Jesus told the Parable of the Ten Virgins, five who were prepared for the bridegroom and five who were not.
Waiting means self-assessment, allowing for a readiness when the Lord returns, and if He tarries, for whatever assignment that He gives us.
- It Can Be Fear
I spoke to a brother asking how he was doing spiritually, and he replied, “Waiting on the Lord.” A year later, I asked him the same question, and he replied, “Waiting on the Lord.” A year later and a year later and a year later — same answer. I haven’t seen him recently, but I believe that he is still waiting.
He was like the unrighteous steward, who told God. . .
I was afraid I would lose your money, so I hid it in the earth. Look, here is your money back (Matthew 25:25, NLT).
- Waiting Increases Expectation!!!!!!
You will know if you are waiting properly, if your expectation of what God will do grows daily. . .
Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning, I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly (Psalm 5:3).
For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for him! (Isaiah 64:4)
Let’s remember — waiting anticipates the goodness of God revealed in our lives, even despite our trials. Let’s stand in hope.
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord! (Psalm 31:24, ESV).
Amen!