"But as it is written: Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." -1 Corinthians 2:9
"Don't rush something that is worth waiting for."
In my life- and I am sure the lives of many others- patience has most certainly proven itself to be a virtue. The idea of waiting in such a fast-paced world seems nearly laughable. It is easy to see how morals in a morally corrupt society appear to be less than worth one's time. That is the point, however: from the world's standards, it is not worth it. From the Lord's standards, it is well worth it. There is not one piece of advice written in the Word that does not look out for God's creations. There is not one bit of information that is not for our benefit, put in place with our best interest in mind.
During college this past year, I had a conversation with my best friend and roommate about the art of patience. Anything that an individual works and waits for is going to mean so much more to them than if it was just freely given. The things that we are patient for, are the very same things that should fill us with excitement and appreciation. For instance, because I will have to wait for the one that God has prepared for me, I will also be able to pour every ounce of my love into that relationship. It will enable me to make him feel as special as he deserves to as the man of God that he is. Every single attribute of my personality as both a wife and a mother will be showered on my family to its fullest potential. They will not get a diluted version of me- they will get all of me. The plans that I make now will equip me for when it is time to make them come to pass. The mistakes that I make now will prevent me from making them when I have a family, so that their burdens are lighter to bear. This time to find out who I truly am as a child of God, will allow me to be the best me that I can be for my loved ones.
The wait gives God time to shape and prepare us so that our readiness lines up perfectly with His timing. God sees our long-suffering; it does not go unnoticed by Him.
If there is anything as important as patience, it is the ability to work in the midst of the wait. Not only does this make the season of anticipation all the more bearable, but it allows God to use us in whatever way He wills. It allows us to practice trusting Him, building a relationship with Him, and relying on His will rather than our own. Whether it be a job, a relationship, or something else entirely, we must recognize that our entire worth does not rest on that alone. God has a variety of opportunities that He wants us to take part in, and it requires our selfless surrender to Him in order for those things to come to pass. As a matter of fact, perhaps our idleness is the very culprit of our delayed purpose.
What God has in store for us will be worth every ounce of patience. What is coming is far better than what is behind. Be excited.
"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." -2 Chronicles 15:7
How can we discipline ourselves to work in the midst of our wait? How can we do our part, rather than be idle?
Comments