Seasons of waiting

Waiting is difficult. It requires patience, and if we are honest, it often exposes a weakness in our character and attitude. Often, we look at situations to illustrate this challenge. It may be a long line at the store, a red light that never wants to change, or a reply from a text that takes longer than we feel it should.

These situations certainly test our patience when they require us to wait. However, what about the seasons of waiting?

A season of waiting is much more difficult than a situation. It requires patient endurance and even prolongs pain. After several years of trying and the tragedy of losing a child during the first trimester, my wife and I were challenged during that season. We compared ourselves to others and felt inadequate. We questioned why God would allow us to walk through the tragic loss of an innocent baby. 

Seasons are hard. Waiting is hard. I am encouraged by the example of Paul in Acts 24:22-27. While in prison, he could have moped and whined. But instead, he used that time to write letters to the churches who needed to be encouraged. He used that time to tell the story of Jesus to those who would listen. We don’t have much insight into his emotional state, but we do see determination to remain faithful in a season of waiting.

This is an encouragement for anyone in a season of waiting. James 1:2-4 encourages us to hold an attitude of joy. It is this waiting that allows for growth and maturity. Endurance is gained when we are stretched. No matter your season or trial, I encourage you to view the situation through the hopeful lens of trust and faith.

The silver lining of a season is that there is peace after the storm. My wife and I now stand on the other side of that experience with two beautiful girls and the maturity of trusting the ultimate timing of God and His sovereign plan. 

I can’t promise that God will always answer your prayers in the way that you desire. I can’t promise that your season will end when and how you prefer. However, I can promise you that God is faithful and will grow you as you trust Him in every season!