Jul 13, 2011
What Should We Do When We’re Waiting?
I was praying this morning, and I had a strong sense to pray for a few people. While praying, I could see that God was preparing them to do something but they didn’t see what it was yet.
That is a tough place to be.
Living in a place of preparation and uncertainty can be stressful, draining, and unfulfilling. You’re always waiting for the next thing. You don’t know what you’re supposed to do each day because you feel like you were made to do something else.
This morning I sensed that God really does have things to teach us and to develop in us at the times when we feel stuck or in between or simply uncertain. He gives us opportunities to grow, and we’ll simply never know how he may use something to shape us.
I’ve learned a lot about that with my writing lately. Things have not followed the path that I’d chosen for myself and planned out, but at the same time, I have what I need and God continues to teach me things I never expected to learn.
I suppose this is part of what faith looks like: we take steps forward each day into the uncertainties of life, trusting that we can hear God today and move forward, trusting him with the results.
At the end of the day, if we can give God the glory for where he has led us, we may also find that we’ve ended up right where we belong.
For more posts on faith, visit Bonnie Gray’s blog post today: Facing What You Fear to Lead a Significant Life.
A poignant post for me today, Ed. Thanks for this.
I’m glad to hear that. I’ve certainly seen God doing a lot of good stuff in and through you over the past two years.
Not what I wanted to hear this morning but exactly what I need I’m thinking. I have been resisting where I am right now, thinking that God has something better surely. Yesterday I sensed that (once again) He is saying that my character and choices in the place of waiting is utterly important. Also perhaps I do have more to learn. Ouch. Especially to be content in all circumstances.
I need to remind myself of that: to take steps forward and trust him for the rest. I also agree that, through, writing, God has shown me that He gives me what I need for every day and, even if my life isn’t going the way I wish, He is in control. Thank you for this reminder.
Yes, I agree on this, too: “God continues to teach me things I never expected to learn.” Faith and trust are essential siblings, aren’t they?
Preperation and uncertainty – I know so well. But when we can find our centre and trust Him in all things it become easier to release our fears, impatience and frustration. (I’m working on it…)
Thanks for this Ed.
I’ve felt the same way as if God wants me to stay put, but that I am waiting.
“I suppose this is part of what faith looks like: we take steps forward each day into the uncertainties of life, trusting that we can hear God today and move forward, trusting him with the results.”
Perfectly said. Trust and obey. Thanks
What is a shining reflection of Christ in you is that in your waiting, you reach out to encourage others — and lift them up on their journey of faith and waiting. Like you have me. Thank you again for pointing me to the Holy Spirit and the time you took to offer your input on writing, Ed! You are a blessing!
So true what you wrote: “He gives us opportunities to grow, and we’ll simply never know how he may use something to shape us.”
Thanks for letting God use your time of waiting to be a blessing to others.