“It is resting in the Lord, in His will, His promise, His faithfulness, and His love, that makes patience easy.”- Andrew Murray
Charles Stanley concludes Chapter 5 of Waiting on God with a reminder that it is crucial we test our motives when it comes to God’s promises and while we wait for Him to answer our prayers. The Father will not compete with any longing that replaces Him.
When we wait of God, He always will show us His grace, goodness, love, and mercy, as Dr. Stanley explains:
” . . . delight yourself in the Lord, make His the priority of your life, wait for Him, cling to His promises, and trust Him to give you the desires of your heart. . . . He wants to fulfill them in a manner that reveals the awesome way He loves and provides for you.”
As we wait for the fulfillment of God’s promises, Dr. Stanley notes we have three responsibilities. We must exhibit faith, patience, and obedience.
1. Faith. Dr. Stanley defines faith as “the confident conviction God will do as He’s promised.” Our faith and trust in God will grow when we believe even though every earthly indication is fighting against that faith.
2. Patience. One of the New Testament Greek words for patience is hupomone, meaning “steadfastness, constancy, and perseverance.” It is the picture of a Christian who remains on the course Christ has set, despite all obstacles and trials.
3. Obedience. Whether we understand God’s direction to us or not, we must allow Him to guide us to our destination step-by-step.
Today’s question: What Bible verses have strengthened and sustained your faith, patience, and obedience? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Courage and determination”
