Waiting on GodSample

Directing Our Focus to God

Do you know who it is you’re waiting for? Someone may say, “I’m hoping for an employer to notice my resume.” Another person might add, “I’m waiting for a spouse,” or, “I’m anticipating having a child.” We tend to focus on the object of our desire, rather than the Provider. But really—no matter who or what the subject of your petitions— the One you’re actually waiting for is God. 

You’re hoping He’ll answer your prayers. You’re expecting Him to supply the solution to your problems. You’re awaiting His intervention. After all, the reality is, “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights,” (James 1:17). It’s the Lord Himself who provides all things for you. 

Waiting signifies an expectant endurance that’s demonstrated by a directed, purposeful, active, and courageous attitude of prayer. That expectant endurance means we won’t make a move without the Lord’s guidance. And that first characteristic of godly prayer in waiting—being directed toward God—is what we’ll take a look at in today’s devotion. Rather than concentrating on what we’re waiting for, we’ll focus on the Father, who has the best plan for our lives. 

Ultimately, no matter what you’re waiting for, you’re better prepared and suited for it if you’re centered on God. Why? Because when you focus on what you lack, it inspires despair in your heart. You obsess over your own limitations, which reinforces the bondage within you. Remember, you sin when you try to meet your needs in your own way rather than the Lord’s. So as you fixate on what you don’t have, you enslave yourself more to the sin nature, which eventually leads to destruction (Rom. 6:23). It’s a disheartening and vicious cycle.

But when you single-mindedly set your sights on God, you realize the incredible strength, wisdom, and power that are being employed on your behalf. You have confidence because the Lord knows and provides what’s absolutely best for you. And because He’s unaffected by the obstacles that limit and intimidate you, your reasons to fear disappear (Isa. 41:10).

Friend, the Lord God is faithful. If He makes a promise, He’ll certainly keep it. Don’t miss this principle because it’s one of the most important lessons you can ever learn about your ability to wait on Him—it’s based completely on your understanding of who He is and the relationship you build together.