Hurry-Up and Wait!

     When I was a young airman in the Air Force, I can remember my supervisors stressing the importance of making it on time to my appointments be it medical, military briefings, or training. They would emphasis the consequences of not attending the appointments, and the only legitimate reason to miss them would be in case of an extreme emergency. I did not realize that they were teaching me important character lessons that would follow me the rest of my life.

      I would make preparations to ensure that I did not have any issues attending my appointments because I did not want to get in trouble. I would press my uniform the night before, I purchased two alarm clocks, and made sure I went to bed at a decent hour to not oversleep. I would also make sure I awoke extra early to ensure I would arrive on time. Upon my arrival to a particular appointment I would overhear a term that accurately described the grumbles of all of the disgruntled people that were waiting. I heard a young man say, “Don’t you just love how we have to hurry-up and wait?” Immediately the waiting room roared with grumbles, frustration, and even laughter. We all understood that getting to the appointment was just half the battle, the hardest part was the wait.  

     I find myself having this same attitude when it comes to my walk in Christ at times. I want what I want when I want it at times, and I don’t want to have to wait for it.  I will admit that it is hard waiting on God’s direction for my life when I don’t see any evidence of the Holy Spirit’s much needed help or change! It is hard to wait for the immaculate timing of God when I am trying to work things out in my own strength! It is hard to wait for God when I’m so tired of fighting, or frustrated by the presumed non-response from the Lord. There is hope!  Isaiah 40:31 says, “³¹ But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

     There have been times in my life that I have taken matters in my own hands, and made unwise decisions; and boy did I pay for that! I realize that when I wait on God I find rest for my weary soul, I am reinvigorated in my walk with Christ, and I’m strong enough to support and even encourage others along the way. So I remind myself during this current season of my life, that waiting on God doesn’t have to be difficult when I put my selfish desires aside and seek to give Him Glory in this life He has given me. Waiting on God is an absolute honor, and I’m so blessed that He is so worth the wait. Be encouraged and God bless you!