Psalm 130:5-6 – I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. (NIV)

Waiting can be exhausting! I've been doing what feels like an endless amount of waiting. Maybe you have as well. My waiting has been due to a time of extended recovery as a result of a near-fatal motorcycle accident two and half years ago. I've had eight surgeries, with number nine coming up this month. I'm still waiting to find out what my new normal will be and get to the end of this repair-recovery cycle.

The dictionary defines waiting as "remaining inactive in one place while expecting something". I see Psalm 130 teaching a much more active expectancy. Putting our hope in God's Word is a dynamic perspective that we embrace, not a passive existence we endure.

While waiting expectantly for the Lord to work things out, try on some of these perspectives. The night may seem long, but God does not leave us to journey alone.

While waiting:

• Grow in godly character — gain trust, patience, joy, perseverance.
• Focus on what you can do, not on what you wish you could be doing.
• Manage stress and anxiety by prayer and positive self-talk.
• Value the present season instead of looking longingly at the past or future.
• Be fully present with the people and opportunities in front of you today.

Here is your homework:

• Identify what you are waiting for God to do in your life. Be clear.
• What is your current perspective on your situation? Be real.
• What's a fresh perspective that you could adopt as you put your hope in God's Word? Be rooted.
• What character quality does God want to work on in you? Be growing.
• Who can you help and share your life with while waiting? Be giving.
• What are ten things that you're thankful for right now? Be grateful.

Waiting is hard work, but if we grow while waiting expectantly, we might be surprised how much better we will be and feel in the morning!

Prayer: Father, today, we wait for You. We wait for You to meet us today with Your peace and contentment. Teach us what You want us to hear and learn while waiting. We choose to accept Your perfect timing and ability to work everything together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. We choose by faith to watch for You and to keep watching. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Cam Taylor <cam@transitionalleadership.org>
Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
Send your feedback to the author