Kept Waiting
There are a host of age-old proverbs and modern-day sayings that tout the benefits of being patient, the blessings that come with waiting: “Patience is a virtue.” “Some things in life are worth waiting for.” “Good things come to those who wait.” I am sure you have your own saying that you can add to the list. But, while these adages may offer wise encouragement, I am certain that we have experienced times when waiting… when “putting your wants on layaway,” has been less than desirable. I would argue that waiting… that is to say, “waiting well,” is its own artform like yoga or Tai Chi.
The Bible is replete with countless pearls of wisdom concerning waiting. In fact, counsel concerning waiting and patience is given multiple times in Psalm 37. As I rehearsed today’s text, vss. 34-37, I was overcome with a sense of just how wonderful it is to be “kept waiting.” You see, as we wait on the Lord, the Lord is keeping us. The Lord is stretching and strengthening us… increasing and enabling us. The Lord is preparing us to not only make it through whatever challenges and trials we may be facing in the present, but God is at work in all things to ensure our future. In this season wherein we have chosen to forgo somethings… chosen to set some things aside for a time, Let Us open our eyes and see just how the Lord is keeping us as we wait.
Let Us Pray
Lord God, thank you for being an ever-loving, ever-patient God. Thank you for your word that reminds us that, “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Lord God, help us not to grow impatient… never to grow weary, but trust in you as you are the God of your word. Thank you for letting us know that you are the God who faithfully keeps us… as we wait.
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