Waiting for God

“But as for me, I keep watch for the Lord, I wait in hope for God my Saviour my God will hear me.”
Micah 7:7 (NIV UK)

C. S. Lewis is one of my favourite religious authors. His wit and intelligent defence of Christianity have always encouraged me in my faith. But when I read through Mere Christianity last week, I was challenged by this quote: “I am sure that God keeps no one waiting unless he sees that it is good for him to wait” (Lewis, Mere Christianity).Now, when I read that I had to stop and think, “What does he mean?”

Let me take a stab at unpacking it. So often, I try to set the pace in my own life. I like to think I’m in control of where I’m going—I have my master plan already drawn up. But when I do that, as the old adage goes, God laughs. Why? Because he has a plan for me that is so much better than that which I could have ever imagined.

Living within our limited perspective, it can sometimes feel as if we’re not moving fast enough. As if we’re wasting our time. But I think we need to see these moments not as a spiritual “red light”—but as an invitation to a deeper connection and knowledge of God. These times aren’t meant to be camping trips where we sit around hoping that something will change. These times are perfect opportunities to practise the spiritual discipline of prayer.

When we pray as Jesus taught his disciples, we say to God “Thy will be done”—not my will, but thy will. And I think it’s this process of supplication which God uses to refine and shape us into what he wants us to be. And when we’re ready, according to his wise and compassionate timing—then this period of waiting will be over—and we’ll be ready actively and outwardly to join in participating with the will of God.

So the next time you feel as if you’re stopped at a spiritual “red light”, remember the words of C. S. Lewis—and be comforted, knowing that you’re not stuck; God is working with you and in you to accomplish his great purposes!

Prayer
Gracious Father, when we ‘see’ ourselves we face despair. But then we learn to see ourselves as you see us, and we have boundless hope. The more we rely on you in our spiritual walk, the better, the wiser we are. We ask for your help, Holy Father, to ‘rest’ in you now and forever. In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen

Study by Joseph Tkach

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About the Author:
Joseph Tkach is the President of Grace Communion International (the Denominational name of The Worldwide Church of God UK), and resides in California, USA. You are welcome to attend one of our local Church congregations located throughout the UK and Ireland.  For details of your nearest local congregation, check on our website, www.wcg.org.uk under the ‘Churches’ tab, or ring +44 (0)1858 437099.

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