How Long, Lord?

Waiting on seemingly unanswered prayer can stir up doubt and questions, often uncovering illusions of control. That’s when we’re forced to dig deep and ask, “Do I really believe God is trustworthy?” 

Daniel had plenty of time and occasions to wait on answers during his exile in Babylon. Perhaps you’ve had some extended “exiles” of your own, waiting on God to move, to act, to give some sign that He’ll do what He promised in His Word! Let’s take a look at how we can know that Yahweh is worthy of our trust.

Who is Yahweh?

As you read the following passages, what common threads about God’s faithfulness stand out to you?

• Deuteronomy 7:9
• Exodus 6:8
• Joshua 21:43-45
• Nehemiah 9:8
• Hebrews 6:13-18

God’s faithfulness to His children depends on His righteousness, not on ours; and the fulfillment of His promises will come according to His plan, not ours. Many times in Scripture, those who received the promise watch its fulfillment from the heavenlies. I noticed another truth: God cultivates relationships while moving toward the fulfillment of His promises. In our waiting, He doesn’t busy Himself with other divine tasks until it’s time to change our lives. He remains near. Constant. Rooted in steadfast, covenantal love.

From Daniel to the Cross

Read 2 Corinthians 1:19-20, and think about this radical declaration about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

When the Father sent His Son to earth, He was shouting, “Yes!” to every promise in the Old Testament (Torah). Read the following passages and hear God’s YES!

· In Genesis 3:15, when He promised Eve’s seed would crush the serpent’s head. 

· In Genesis 12, when He promised that through Abraham all nations would be blessed.

· In 2 Samuel 7:11-14, when He would raise up one of David’s descendant to rule forever.

Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Hebrews 10:11-16. How did Jesus become the “YES!” to the promise in Jeremiah?

When Jesus came to earth, He not only fulfilled promises, He made even more! Read the following verses to embrace what we, as Christ followers, can KNOW:

• Hebrews 9:15
• 1 Peter 1:3, 13
• Revelation 22:12-14

Waiting is hard, but waiting with God makes it bearable. Read Hebrews 10:19-25 and learn how to wait well.

Breaking Babylon’s Chains:

How can you remind yourself that Yahweh hears you and is very near in the waiting?