Patience in the Waiting

6/14/2024

"The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."
— Lamentations 3:25-26 (NIV)

In the heart of the book of Lamentations, amidst sorrow and lament, we find a profound declaration of faith and hope. Lamentations 3:25-26 reminds us that even in the darkest times, God's goodness and faithfulness are present for those who earnestly seek Him. This passage offers a powerful message about the nature of waiting and the importance of hope in our relationship with God.

"The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him." Here, we are invited to place our trust and expectations in the Lord. Life often presents us with challenges and periods of waiting that test our patience and faith. Yet, these moments are opportunities for us to lean into God's promises, knowing that His timing and plans are perfect.

"It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord." Waiting quietly doesn't imply passivity; rather, it speaks of a peaceful and confident expectation. It encourages us to cultivate a heart of patience and trust, knowing that God is at work even when we cannot see it. In our fast-paced world, waiting can be one of the hardest things to do, but it's in these moments of stillness that we can experience the depth of God's peace and assurance.

In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, it can be easy to lose hope and become discouraged. But these verses remind us that God is good to those who put their trust in Him. When we place our hope in God, we can be assured that He will always be faithful to us and provide for our needs.

So how do we put that to use in our daily lives? Here are four things you can do right now.

1. Actively Seek God:
Make a conscious effort to seek God through prayer, reading Scripture, and worship. Trust that He is attentive to those who diligently seek Him.

2. Cultivate Patience:
This can be hard but we must learn to embrace waiting as a spiritual discipline. Instead of focusing on the frustration of unmet desires or unanswered prayers, use this time to draw closer to God and deepen your faith.

3. Rest in God's Timing:
Remind yourself that God's timing is perfect. When you feel anxious or impatient, remember that God’s plans are for your good, and He knows the best time for everything in your life.

4. Find Peace in Quietness: 
Practice moments of quiet reflection and meditation on God’s Word. Let His peace fill your heart and mind, especially during seasons of uncertainty. I often tell others to take a DAWG day at least once a quarter. A Day Away With God. Just you and Him.

Waiting on the Lord is not a passive act; it is an active trust in His perfect timing and unwavering faithfulness.

So today, let us take comfort in the fact that God is good to those who hope in Him. Let us patiently wait for Him to bring salvation and deliverance in our lives. And may we be reminded that our hope and trust in God will never be in vain. He is faithful, and He will always come through for us in His perfect timing.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Help us to place our hope in You and seek You with all our hearts. Teach us to wait quietly and patiently for Your salvation, trusting in Your perfect timing and plan for our lives. May Your peace that surpasses all understanding guard our hearts and minds as we rest in Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pastor Jeff

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