The Joy of the In-BetweenSample

Finding Joy in Waiting

Waiting is never fun. You can have a dream or a vision that you really believe is from God—whether it’s a man of God to marry, a child to bear, a business to start, a book to write, or whatever else. The dream excites you, so you lift it up in prayer and believe and trust that God is going to come through.

But after you pray, nothing happens. You look on social media and see that God is making this same dream happen for other people. Why isn’t God listening to your prayers?

The waiting season is not unfamiliar to human nature, and it is not unfamiliar to God.

When we face a difficult waiting season and our faith is being tested, God encourages us to count it as joy. Because if we endure this season and stay steadfast, we will be mature and complete, “not lack­ing anything” (James 1:2-4).

I know that sounds too good to be true, but I have found in my own life the joy that comes when I wait on God’s perfect timing. Even when waiting is the last thing I want to do.

Your heavenly Father knows what you want and need—even be­fore you ask Him (Matthew 6:8). He knows what you want for lunch. He knows what you want in a spouse. He knows the healing you’re seeking and the re­demption you crave to see. He knows what you want for your life.

This doesn’t mean God always gives us everything we want. But do not forget for a second that the God of the universe sees you and cares about you today—even the little details of your life.

Even when God doesn’t answer prayers in the ways we expect, we can trust that He will provide for us in His perfect timing and according to His perfect plan.

This season is not just a time to get through. There is great joy and purpose for you to experience, right where you are. As the psalmist tells us, “let your heart take courage” as you wait for the Lord (Psalm 27:14).

Lord, I lift up my desires to You. I pray for a joy and peace that I wouldn’t have if I got what I wanted right now instead of waiting for You, leaning into You. I trust You to provide everything I need today. In Jesus’ name, amen.