The Wait Was Not A Waste.

“If a man dies, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change comes.” Job. 14:14. 

I recall the story from the life of missionaries Robert and Mary Moffat. For 10 years this couple laboured faithfully in Bechuanaland (now called Botswana) without one ray of encouragement to brighten their way. They could not report a single convert. Finally the directors of their mission board began to question the wisdom of continuing the work. The thought of leaving their post, however, brought great grief to this devoted couple, for they felt sure that God was in their labours, and that they would see people turn to Christ in due season. They stayed; and for a year or two longer, while darkness continued to reign. Then one day a friend in England sent word to the Moffats that he wanted to mail them a gift and asked what they would like. Trusting that in time the Lord would bless their work, Mrs. Moffat replied, “Send us a communion set; I am sure it will soon be needed.” 

God honoured that dear woman’s faith. The Holy Spirit moved upon the hearts of the villagers, and soon a little group of six converts was united to form the first Christian church in that land. The communion set from England was delayed in the mail; but on the very day before they held their first Lord’s super in Bechuanaland, the set arrived. Holding on to doing what is right while waiting for change, whether change in your career, relationships, or personal circumstances is critical in walking with God. The Bible explicitly warns against becoming tired of doing the right thing. Gal. 6:9 a foundational verse: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up". When you feel discouraged or tempted to cut corners, remember that the "harvest" (your change) is guaranteed if you maintain your integrity.

Waiting on God should not be a passive act,  it is an active stance of trust. Continue serving, praying, and walking in righteousness in your current, uncomfortable situation. Don’t try to force your own change by taking matters into your own hands. View your waiting period as a training ground rather than a punishment. Rom. 5:3-5 explains that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. Ask what you are meant to learn in this season. The struggle is often designed to build the spiritual endurance necessary to handle the blessing that is coming. When you want to quit, remind yourself that God’s delay is not his denial. Trust that He knows the exact moment your change will have the greatest impact and glory. Continue doing the best job you can in your present position, even if you are underappreciated or longing for a change. God often opens the next door because you were faithful in the current room. Selah!

FURTHER READING:

“But those who wait for the LORD’s help find renewed strength; they rise up as if they had eagles’ wings, they run without growing weary, they walk without getting tired.” Isa. 40:31.

“Happy is the one who endures testing, because when he has proven to be genuine, he will receive the crown of life that God promised to those who love him.” James. 1:12.

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of salvation. Lord, You are the God of restoration, turnarounds, and sudden breakthroughs. You see the strain of this waiting season, the pressure to compromise, and the weariness in my spirit. I ask for the grace to remain resolute, unshakable in my faith and anchored in Your promises. When my circumstances suggest that I should give up, strengthen my inner man to keep moving forward until my change manifests in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

Job. 35:1-16.

Job. 36:1-33.

Job. 37:1-24.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“Don't Waste Your Waiting Season, Invest Your Waiting Season.”