Almost a year ago, I was in between two options concerning a major decision in my life, and I was really expecting a definite answer from God. During those two weeks, I wasn't settled, and I didn't do a lot of my normal, necessary activities. I was so disorganized, drained, and troubled; it was a terrible time.

Isaiah 40:31 – But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV)

In this verse, God assures us that the results of waiting upon Him are not just renewal, but a dramatic elevation in both strength and energy. He says that we will be neither weary nor fainting. So, the question is: why did my situation seem like the exact opposite of God's promises? It was because I didn't understand that in God's waiting room, I was in His presence, and "in [His] presence is fulness of joy". (Psalm 16:11b KJV) King Solomon gives us a perfect example of what to do in God's waiting room:

Ecclesiastes 9:7 – Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works. (KJV)

This Scripture does not mean living carelessly or becoming drunk while trying to forget yourself. It simply means that you shouldn't look like you're having problems; don't allow your problems to define you; never be afraid to take time off to take care of yourself. Your physical and mental health, and the whole of your being, are important to God.

Are you one who has been going through difficult times, perhaps waiting for God's intervention for years whilst standing on His promises? I want to encourage you not to let yourself go. Don't stop eating, laughing, interacting with others, using your talents, touching lives, impacting your world, and telling others that God loves them and that He answers prayers. It might be hard, but once you are in God's waiting room, the best thing to do is to relax and trust in Him.

Are you in God's waiting room? Do you feel like this Scripture is talking about you? Are you the individual who, against hope, believes in God? Please take Ecclesiastes 9:7 as something that you can do while being profitable to God and man, and Isaiah 40:31 will be fulfilled in your life.

Prayer: Dear Lord, give us strength in Your waiting room, anoint us with the oil of gladness, and answer our prayers. Amen.

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About the author:

John Oguntoyinbo <jesutosinjohn@gmail.com>
Nigeria
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