IN THE WAITING ROOM

By SEAN STANTON

WAIT… Few words are less welcome.

Delay and disappointment are the cause of a dangerous heart condition. Proverbs 13:12 says, 'Hope deferred makes the heart sick.' When our hopes and our dreams die, heartsickness becomes a constant companion. Whether we admit it or not, we can become disappointed with God.

David was not afraid to admit his frustration with God and his dislike for waiting. 'How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?' Ps 13:1–2 (NIV)

Waiting tests our faith more than just about any other experience. However, few experiences have as much potential to transform us if we wait well. Paul Tripp said, 'Waiting is not about what you get at the end of the wait; it’s about what you become as you wait.'

We wait better when we remind ourselves that God is Good and that He has good things in store for us. 'But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for He has been good to me.' Ps 13:5–6 (NIV) W

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Ps 27:14 (NIV)