Closer Than You Think: A 5-Day Devotional by Jonathan TraylorSample

Closer Than You Think | Day 5 The King Is on The Way

I have some great news! The King is on the way, our salvation is near. Knowing this makes everything worth it! All the hardships, laboring, and circumstances can’t compare to the glory that is to come. Waiting was hard for me as a child and not much easier as an adult. Have you ever observed a child trying to be patient? Sometimes my daughters will ask me to play a game with them while I’m in the middle of a task. My answer is usually, “Yes, right after Daddy finishes this work. Give me a few minutes and I’ll be right there.” You would think that they would walk away satisfied, but instead, they stand there like statues. They have no intention of leaving my side until I’m ready to play. Even with all of the things they could be doing in the meantime, they decide to simply wait. Impatiently patient. I can’t help but imagine myself in that same position with God.

James 5:7-8 tells us to be patient like the farmer who waits for fruit from the earth. This is not an impatient, inactive patience. This type of patience is active and expectant. The farmer knows that there is more work to be done even in the waiting. There is preparation for the Harvest. Sometimes, when I look over at my daughters waiting for me to be ready to play, I’ll say something like: “You guys can go play until I’m ready” or “Have you made your beds yet?” (Parents understand)

Our heavenly father asks us to work in the vineyard. He tells us to spread the good news of Jesus. Have you ever felt tempted/content to just sit back and wait for Christ’s return? Good to go to work, go to church, and enjoy your family? God calls us to do more than just wait out the time. He’s calling us to act with confidence and joy that He will keep His word. He will return to take us home.

We have so much to be excited about! Our king is on the way! He’s closer than we think. While you wait, let not your heart get weary. Hold on to the truth that what we see isn’t all that is to be seen. Even our afflictions are temporary. When our King returns, everything will have been worth the wait.