Listen:
“Wait for the LORD; Be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” (Psalm 27:14 NIVUK)
Reflect:
Depending on our immediate situation, these words resound differently. David is writing in a context of betrayal, enemy attacks and the threat of war. He is in a very tough spot and needs the Lord’s help.
A couple of years ago, I received these same words in a time of ill health, having to rest most of the time, hoping for healing, knowing it might not come. I wasn’t experiencing the same danger as David, but battling frustration at having to sit still and fighting guilt because it felt lazy to do nothing.
When I prayed, I wanted to hear the Lord saying, “I am healing you now and launching you into something big and exciting”, but actually the Lord’s word to me was “wait”. He was saying, “Yes, I have heard you, I do know, I do love you, please wait.”
The Lord has eternity in his hands and he is not in a hurry. Sometimes he is happy to wait and would like us to wait too.
For me, the waiting bore fruit; I began to worship him more for who he is. I was reminded how much I need him. I learned to trust more deeply in his eternal perspective – I gained new patience. The waiting was transformative.
What about you?
- How do you need God right now?
- What is the Lord teaching you where he’s asking you to wait?
- Do you trust him enough to wait for his help rather than struggling on alone?
Prayer of Response:
Thank you Lord for your patience with me. Please give me new patience to wait for you. Thank you for your wise waiting. Amen.
—Submitted by Sylvana Botterill
Sylvana is a long time member of the Lifesprings team and currently lives in the UK. She is passionate about supporting women in their life and faith journeys and in equipping them to serve God according to His plan and for His glory. After a period of waiting and learning she was healed of long Covid in February 2023 and has gradually returned to active ministry (and to running!)