12-05-2021 3:01am

Strong spirits: what to be waiting for

Photo: Dave Nakayama

How are you with waiting? I know... me too. Most of us are not that good at it. Our lives demand speed and action, and we are seldom content to simply wait.

And yet, waiting is one of the best disciplines we can learn. It is a way to be sure that we don't go off half-cocked. That we don't make major mistakes or major decisions without first considering the circumstances. It is a way to learn to savor the moment we are in.

Someone has said, "Hurry is not of the devil... hurry is the devil." Our world presses us to do more, to hurry up. It asks, "What are you waiting for?" as an admonition to get to work. But really, it is a very good question to ask.

"I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the LORD more than watchmen wait for the morning..." (Psalm 130:5,6)

"...but those who wait on 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." (Isaiah 40:31)

"Do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise... Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:8,9)

So, what are you waiting for? Learn to slow down, learn to wait on God. He has what you need.

Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - subscribe to our daily email so you don't miss any.