Waiting On God
What does it mean to wait on the Lord? It is an expression used many times, especially in the psalms (cf. Ps. 37:34; 40:1; 52:9; 62:1, 5; 69:3, 6; 123:2; 130:5, 6; 145:15; Prov. 20:22). The frequency of the expression in Psalms is understandable, given that the book focuses on the devotional life of the saints. Below are some things implied by the word wait. They are adapted from a publication put out by Key-Way-Tin Bible Institute, in 2001. Not all will apply equally in a given case, and yet they are each part of the attitude described.
- Waiting is resting in patient contentment concerning God’s plan.
- Waiting is eager expectation and hope concerning what God is going to do.
- Waiting is listening attentively to hear God’s voice through His Word.
- Waiting is exercising wisdom to evaluate incoming information and assess priorities.
- Waiting is walking in the Spirit, determined to live in faith and obedience, step by step, toward God.
- Waiting is praying with thanksgiving–the thanksgiving of faith that trusts the Lord to do what is best.
- Waiting is growing. The time of waiting on God deepens our relationship with Him and develops Christian character. (Thus waiting is not a waste of time!)
- Waiting is readiness to respond when God reveals what is next.