What to Do When We Are WaitingSample

Obedience in the Wait: Aligning with God’s Will

The second thing I want to show you is that in our spiritual walk, times of waiting are not just about patience; they are profound opportunities for obedience. This truth is vividly illustrated by the apostles’ actions during their wait in Jerusalem, as narrated in Acts. They didn’t perceive this period as a pause from their mission but rather as an integral part of fulfilling it. This segment of their journey teaches us a vital lesson: obedience is key during times of waiting.

Why were the apostles in Jerusalem gathered in an upper room, united in prayer? They were there by choice to obey Jesus’ command.. They could have easily reverted to their previous lives as fishermen or tax collectors or embarked prematurely on their ministry. Instead, they chose to stay in Jerusalem, as Jesus had instructed, waiting for the promised Holy Spirit.

This act of obedience is a powerful model for us. In our waiting seasons, it’s crucial to ask ourselves: Are we aligned with God’s will, as revealed in Scripture? Are we actively obeying His commands to the best of our knowledge and ability? Obedience in waiting isn’t just about avoiding wrongdoing; it’s about actively doing what God has already made clear in His Word.

Waiting periods can sometimes lead to spiritual weariness, where basic acts of obedience start to feel burdensome. It’s in these times that our commitment to God’s will is truly tested. Are we continuing in our prayer life and study of the Word? Or are we allowing discouragement to dampen our zeal for God?

True obedience is a matter of the heart. It’s about desiring God’s will above our own, even when it means staying put when we’d rather move forward. It’s about trusting that God’s plans for us are worth the wait and that our obedience during these times is shaping us for what lies ahead.

As you navigate your own waiting season, take this time to examine your heart and actions. Are you actively aligning your life with God’s will? Are you maintaining your spiritual disciplines even when progress seems slow? Let’s learn from the apostles and embrace obedience as a vital part of our waiting, trusting that God is working His purpose in and through us during these times.