Waiting. Quite possibly one of the hardest things for us as humans to do; and personally, one of the hardest things I’ve had to train myself to do. Even from the time we are kids, waiting causes anxiety, anger, doubt, and countless other emotions that tend to back us into a corner. Being forced to wait takes us out of our comfort zone and is often the cause of great stress in our spiritual walk with God. Why is God making us wait for this blessing? Does God even hear me? God, please give me a sign! These are just some of the cries for help we use when we’re being forced to wait. Here’s the best advice I can give about those in-between times in life:
1. DON’T GIVE IN TO DOUBT!
Ultimately, when we are being asked to wait for something, we are going against what was in our original plan. Therefore, we often struggle to see waiting periods as beneficial. We can be so convinced that our plan was the best way and it’s fairly easy for us to sit and question God’s plan. This is even evident in certain Biblical characters. Thomas, one of Jesus’s own disciples doubted Jesus’s resurrection from the dead. I mean, think about it: this is coming from someone who had spent years of his life traveling with Jesus, but Thomas allowed his human nature to overcome his belief and faith in God’s power. Don’t be so quick to doubt God’s ultimate plan and choose yours instead!
2. DON’T GIVE IN TO ANGER!
It’s easy for us, especially in today’s time, to look around and wonder why the “bad guys” are getting blessed and the “good guys” can’t seem to catch a break. This goes back to trusting in God’s plan. There are going to be times in life where we give way to our anger and start thinking we’re smarter than God. It all seems to feel like we’re being wronged, and it makes us angry! We have to be honest with ourselves and realize we aren’t angry with people and the circumstances around us. We’re inevitably mad at God and that’s okay! We just have to talk to Him about it. This is where a sense of vulnerability comes into play. If you’re mad with God, talk to Him. We serve a God who already knows our heart, but who is willing to sit and listen to us as well. So, give it up to Him!
3. DON’T GIVE UP!
I think the thing I struggle with most when it comes to waiting is inactivity. We come across so many people in our lives who have just lost hope and given up on things they’ve dreamed for. This is where doubt and anger lead us: down a road where we eventually choose to give up. We have to remember our faith is like a muscle, constantly in need of nourishment and stretching. So, in those times where you just want to give up, remember where you came from and keep God out in front of you as that light in a dark tunnel.
Waiting is potentially the hardest thing we have to do in our lifetime. But, waiting can be the most rewarding thing as well. Waiting actually points us to God’s goodness. God’s love, mercy, and timing is always right. God is committed to a life of using His tools to better us. Times where we have to wait are one of his primary tools in order to shape our lives. Therefore, we are called to wait with patience and realize our present suffering is meant for our future glory (Romans 8:18).
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday at the 8 AM or 10:30 AM Service or online if you cannot make it to Church this Sunday. Remember, we will be holding our Annual Congregational Meeting during the 10:30 AM service. I will be “waiting” to see you. Blessings, as always, Fr. Bill