When I think of waiting, I think of waiting to marry my husband, Chris. In the early months of last year, I remember waking up each morning with a deep excitement and anticipation for our wedding day. I longed for the moment to arrive.
I enjoyed every part of the preparation: from sending out invitations to selecting the food to enjoying the festivities. There was a beautiful rhythm to this season. Most mornings began with an outdoor run where I listened to worship music and spent time thanking God in prayer. I was waiting with joy because I knew the one I was waiting for.
The Lord has used this season and the divine picture of marriage to help me sit in awe of His heart. Here is what I have learned: Waiting with joy comes when we know the One we are waiting for. Just like I knew there was someone who loved me and wanted to be with me, I know a perfect someone, Jesus, who gave His life so that I could be His bride. Knowing Jesus and His heart for me gives me joy as I wait in different life seasons — and ultimately as I wait for His return.
To me, waiting with wisdom means waiting in awe of God’s character — waiting with knowledge of and faith in who God is. Because of who God is, we can wait on Him with confidence. He is perfect in love. He is a good Father. He has our best in mind. He is shaping us and strengthening our faith and character as we rely and depend on Him. He is preparing us for what’s next.
When we know who holds our lives — the living God who created us in His image and loves us more than we could ever imagine — we can trust Him to be at work for the good of those who love Him and for the glory of His name (Ephesians 3:20; Romans 8:28).
Here are some truths and promises from God to encourage our hearts as we wait.
- James 1:5-6 states that God will provide us the wisdom we need to wait well because He is a generous giver.
- Ephesians 2:10 tells us that God created us for a mighty purpose, and He has good works prepared specifically for us.
- John 14:1-4 reminds us that He is preparing a place for us and will come back so that we can be with Him forever.
The seasons we are in vary, but ultimately we are all waiting for the Lord’s return. How we wait determines the significance of this life God has given us. Will we honor Him by seeking Him first, using the gifts He has given us, and following the example of Christ? Let’s be women who live lives rich with purpose and wisdom from above.
