Waiting On The Lord, Part 3: Active Waiting
Active Waiting: What to Do While You Wait on the Lord
Key Scripture:
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” — Psalm 27:14
In our journey with God, waiting is often one of the most challenging aspects. We’re eager to see God’s promises fulfilled, to receive answers to our prayers, or to move forward in His plans for our lives. Yet, waiting on the Lord is not a passive experience. It’s a time for active engagement, where we grow, serve, and prepare for what God has in store. In this part of our series, we’ll explore what it means to wait actively on the Lord and how we can make the most of these seasons.
The Nature of Active Waiting
Active waiting is about being fully engaged with God and His work, even as we wait for specific answers or direction. It’s a period where we are called to be strong and courageous, as Psalm 27:14 encourages us, rather than passive or idle. Active waiting involves trusting God’s timing while remaining diligent in our spiritual practices and responsibilities.
Prayer: Staying Connected to God
One of the most important aspects of active waiting is maintaining a strong prayer life. Prayer keeps us connected to God, helps us align our desires with His will, and provides us with the peace and strength we need to endure the waiting period. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
In prayer, we can bring our worries, frustrations, and hopes to God, trusting that He hears us and will answer in His perfect timing. Regular prayer also allows us to listen to God, to seek His guidance, and to find comfort in His presence.
Serving Others: Shifting Focus from Self to Others
While we wait, it can be easy to become inwardly focused, dwelling on our own needs and desires. However, one of the most powerful ways to stay active in our faith is to serve others. Serving shifts our focus from ourselves to the needs of those around us and allows us to be a blessing even in our own season of waiting.
Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” By continuing to serve, we remain faithful in our calling, showing God’s love and compassion to others.
Consider finding ways to serve in your church, community, or even within your family. Whether it’s volunteering, offering support to a friend, or participating in outreach, these acts of service not only bless others but also keep us engaged in God’s work during our waiting period.
Spiritual Growth: Deepening Your Relationship with God
Waiting on the Lord is also a prime opportunity for spiritual growth. During this time, God often works in our hearts, teaching us valuable lessons, and refining our character. Instead of viewing waiting as a period of inactivity, see it as a time to deepen your relationship with God.
James 1:4 says, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Use this time to engage more deeply with Scripture, to study the Bible, and to reflect on God’s promises. Consider joining a Bible study group, spending more time in worship, or setting aside time for personal reflection and meditation.
This is also a good time to cultivate spiritual disciplines such as fasting, journaling, and solitude. These practices can help you draw closer to God, gain clarity, and build your faith, making you more prepared for the next season He has planned for you.
Preparing for What’s Next
Active waiting isn’t just about staying busy; it’s about preparing for what God has in store. As you wait, consider how you can prepare yourself for the future God is leading you into. This might involve developing new skills, pursuing further education, or seeking mentorship and guidance in areas where you feel God is calling you to grow.
For example, if you’re waiting on a new job opportunity, use this time to update your resume, learn new skills, or network with others in your field. If you’re waiting for direction in ministry, spend time studying and seeking God’s guidance on how you can be more effective in your calling.
By preparing during your waiting season, you position yourself to step into God’s plans with confidence and readiness when the time comes.
Conclusion: Embracing Active Waiting
Waiting on the Lord is not a passive experience, but an active journey of faith. It’s a time to stay connected to God through prayer, to serve others with love, to grow spiritually, and to prepare for the future. As you wait, trust that God is at work in your life, shaping you and preparing you for the blessings and opportunities that lie ahead.
Remember, waiting on the Lord is a time of strengthening and renewal. As you engage in these practices, you’ll find that your faith is deepened, your character is refined, and you are better equipped to step into the fullness of God’s plans when the waiting period comes to an end. Trust in His timing, and embrace the active, purposeful waiting that leads to greater growth and intimacy with God.
All teachings are prayerfully written by Daniel Glasco, utilizing available resources to faithfully present biblical truth and discipleship encouragement.