Jesus Is My Joy Ministries!

The Rewards of Waiting

READ / Isaiah 40:28-31 

Let's get moving.  How many times have we thought this as we stand in lines, wait for appointments, or sit in traffic?  The truth is, most of us dislike having our plans delayed.  Perhaps that is why we struggle to wait on the Lord---we do not want to hear, "Stay where you are until you receive additional orders.  Do not make a change without the Spirit's approval.  Continue as you are and keep waiting."  Yet there are great rewards for not moving ahead of God. 

Blessing #1---We will discover God's will and purpose.  Our impatience can cause us to miss out on the best that God has planned and to take detours into situations we would have liked to avoid.  The goodness of the Lord will be poured out upon those who choose to be still before Him.  (Lamentations 3:25) 

Blessing #2---We will acquire supernatural strength for the work.  Frequently, the Lord asks us to serve in capacities beyond our natural abilities.  Through His Holy Spirit, He will provide the empowerment needed for the task that He has assigned. 

Blessings #3---We will receive answers to prayer.  By remaining where we are, we will be rewarded with a response from our God as well as His direction and help.  (Psalm 40:1-3)

 Blessing #4---We will see God at work.  The sovereign Lord---Creator of heaven and earth, giver and sustainer of life---will turn His efforts toward us for our gain and also for the benefit of others.  (Isaiah 64:4 NIV) Holding still requires effort.  Ask the Holy Spirit to develop in you a character that is willing to wait.   

Written by Dr. Charles F. Stanley

In Touch Ministries

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