(Part 5: Oh You of Little Faith: A Call to Deeper Trust)
Introduction: Faith in the Waiting Room
Waiting is one of the most challenging aspects of the Christian journey. We pray, believe, and trust, but when answers seem delayed, doubt begins to creep in. How do we remain faithful when God’s timing doesn’t align with our expectations?
Abraham’s story in Genesis is a profound example of waiting on God’s promises. God promised him a son, yet Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years before Isaac was born. In the waiting, faith and patience were tested, but the fulfilment of God’s promise proved His faithfulness.
The Bible reminds us:
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14).
This post will explore the relationship between faith and patience, offering insights into how we can trust God during seasons of waiting.
Why Does God Make Us Wait?
- To Build Our Faith
Waiting strengthens our trust in God’s character and timing. It requires us to rely on His promises rather than our immediate desires.- Key Scripture: Romans 4:20-21: “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised.”
- To Develop Patience
Patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). God uses waiting to refine our character and teach us endurance.- Key Scripture: James 1:4: “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
- To Align Us with His Will
Sometimes, waiting isn’t about delay but preparation. God may be working behind the scenes to align circumstances with His perfect plan.- Key Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
The Challenges of Waiting
- Impatience and Frustration
Waiting can lead to feelings of impatience, especially when we see no immediate progress. Like Sarah, we may be tempted to take matters into our own hands, leading to complications (Genesis 16:1-2). - Doubt and Fear
When answers are delayed, doubt often creeps in. We begin to question whether God has forgotten us or if His promises still stand.- Key Scripture: Isaiah 49:15: “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you.”
- Weariness
Prolonged waiting can make us weary and discouraged. However, the Bible reminds us that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.- Key Scripture: Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
Faithful Waiting: Lessons from the Bible
- Abraham: Faith in God’s Promises
Despite years of waiting, Abraham’s faith in God’s promise of a son did not waver. His story teaches us to trust God’s timing, even when it seems impossible. - Joseph: Trust in God’s Plan
Joseph waited years in slavery and prison before becoming a leader in Egypt. His story shows that God can use waiting periods to position us for greater purposes.- Key Scripture: Genesis 50:20: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
- Hannah: Persistence in Prayer
Hannah’s persistent prayers for a child demonstrate the importance of unwavering faith during waiting seasons. Her trust in God led to the birth of Samuel.- Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 1:27: “I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him.”
Debate: Is Waiting Passive or Active?
- Waiting as Passive:
Some view waiting as a period of inactivity, where we simply endure until God moves. They emphasise verses like Psalm 37:7: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” - Waiting as Active:
Others argue that waiting is an active process involving prayer, preparation, and obedience. They cite examples like Noah, who built the ark while waiting for the flood. - Balance:
Waiting on God is neither passive nor self-reliant. It involves trusting Him while remaining spiritually and practically engaged.
Practical Steps for Faithful Waiting
- Pray Persistently
Prayer keeps us connected to God during waiting seasons. Share your hopes and struggles with Him, and ask for strength to remain faithful. - Meditate on God’s Promises
Anchor your heart in scripture that affirms God’s faithfulness and timing.- Key Action: Memorise verses like Lamentations 3:25: “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him.”
- Prepare for the Answer
Use the waiting period to prepare for what you’re praying for. Trust God while taking practical steps toward your goals. - Encourage Others
Encourage those around you who may also be waiting on God. Sharing your journey can strengthen your own faith and build community.
Conclusion: A Faith That Waits
Waiting is not easy, but it is an essential part of the Christian life. It teaches us patience, strengthens our faith, and aligns us with God’s perfect plan. As you wait, remember that God’s timing is always best, and His promises never fail.
- Closing Scripture: Habakkuk 2:3: “For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it lingers, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.”
What are you waiting for in this season? Trust that God is working, even when you can’t see it.
Stay tuned for Part 6: “Beyond Little Faith: Building a Legacy of Trust in God.”