Waiting
Today’s Scripture Selection: Psalm 40:1
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.”
Some of us are better at waiting than others. I know I certainly have had more than a few impatient moments.
But when I read these words from the Psalms; when I hear how God “lifted (David) out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire” I am reminded of God’s amazing – and very patient – grace.
As I read the shepherd poet’s testimony about how he had a “new song” in his mouth; a “hymn of praise” to God – because of his willingness to wait on God and God’s timing – it gives me hope.
When I am impatient; anxious to get moving ahead; hurriedly making decisions that might be anything but the right ones – the Scriptures remind me – wait. Just wait.
Now, granted, sometimes waiting is more a sign of paralyzing fear or avoidance than a sign of spiritual or emotional maturity.
Sometimes we need to, as my parents might have said, “get the lead out” and start doing something – anything!
But, David – who made some rash and devastatingly poor and hasty choices of his own – reminds us. Sometimes, we need to wait patiently for the Lord. That is, if we don’t want to go down some very wrong paths.
I suppose it comes down to balance.
We need to develop a willingness to bravely take action, in faith, when needed; and also develop an equally important willingness to wait on guidance and help from God when needed.
How do we know which to do?
I suggest we learn that by first doing something that always helps matters: pray.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I patiently wait on you and your perfect guidance. Help me to know when and how to act on that guidance as well. AMEN.
