Ordinary Waiting
As a child, my life felt defined by waiting.
I waited for my family to wake up in the mornings.
I waited for the TV channels to begin broadcasting—this was back when screens displayed a test pattern until the day’s programming began.
I waited by the window, ready early as my dad instructed, watching for whoever was giving me a ride so they wouldn't have to wait for me.
On beach vacations, I waited for the adults to put down their books and come with me into the ocean.
Waiting wasn’t easy then. And if I’m honest, it still doesn’t come naturally. But over time, I’ve come to see that waiting is not just a childhood frustration—it’s can be a deeply spiritual experience.
A Different Kind of Waiting
The Bible offers a surprising view of waiting. Isaiah 40:31 paints a picture of renewed strength and energy acquired through waiting.
“They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
But the promise comes with a condition—“those who hope in the Lord” (NIV).
Interestingly, the original Hebrew word here—qavah—can just as accurately be translated as “wait.” Some translations say, “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.”
This is not passive or bored waiting. It’s waiting with expectation. Hopeful. Trusting. Intentional.
This kind of waiting is an act of faith.
False Forms of Waiting
But not all waiting is rooted in faith. Some kinds of waiting actually weaken us:
-
Frustrated waiting — when we’re impatient and feel things should be moving faster. This usually leads to judgment—of others, of circumstances, even of God’s timing.
-
Weary waiting — when the delay drains us. We lose our sense of anticipation, and eventually, our hope.
-
Aimless waiting — when we’re not really waiting on anything, just existing in a holding pattern with no vision, no focus, and no connection to God.
These aren’t expressions of faith. They’re symptoms of anxiety, discouragement, or even spiritual drift.
The Strength of Hopeful Waiting
In contrast, faithful waiting strengthens us. It reminds us we need something only God can provide. It grounds us in the reality that He will act—based not on our timelines, but on His character and purposes.
This isn’t escapism. It’s a grounded, patient focus that brings spiritual renewal.
It doesn’t deny present difficulties—but it lifts our eyes beyond them.
“All creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.” (Romans 8:19)
Even creation is infused with longing for God’s purposes to unfold. How much more should we be attuned to His timing in our lives?
Waiting With Purpose
Where might God be asking you to wait—not passively, not anxiously—but with hopeful expectation?
He may be using this season to renew your faith, to energize your spirit, and to draw your attention to Him.
True waiting is never wasted. In God’s hands, it becomes preparation, transformation, and worship.
With you,
~ Coach Tom
_________________
P.S. ... If you are stalled in life, or particularly if you are in transition, here are three ways I can help you Get Clear, Get Focused and Be Fruitful!
1. Grab a Free Copy of my "4 Key Steps to Clarity and Fruitfulness" Document. It's a Blueprint to help you move ahead. Click Here
2. Join my FaceBook Group, "Greater Focus and Fruitfulness" for more teaching, training and community. Click Here
