Finding Strength in Patience – The Marked Life Blog

Waiting on God is often one of the most difficult aspects of a believer’s journey.

The period of waiting can feel endless, filled with uncertainty, frustration, and doubt. However, it is in these moments that our faith has the opportunity to become layered, tightly woven, and transformed.

You see, when waiting on God, we may believe that we are just waiting for the thing we need or desire. But, in actuality, waiting on God entails far more than simply that alone.

Waiting on God a test of patience and perseverance.

It’s also a period of profound growth and deepened faith.

Imagine it as a development tool, a chisel if you will, that works to carve trust, humility, and total surrender into us.

When we are waiting on God, we have no choice other than to yield control, remain consistent in our prayer, and position our hearts for any possible outcome.

When I am waiting on God (which is quite often) I myself am revealed. Hidden stones of fear, anxiety, pride, selfish ambition, the desire for comfort and ease, and all sorts of things rear their heads.

In those instances where I think I am desiring a thing for one reason, the season of waiting allows me to discern other reasons for which I may hold the desire. I also am able to step aside and discern my readiness for the thing in which I am desiring or feel I need in that season. Lastly, there are the times where I discover the genuine and pure longings of my heart as well.

This post will explore why waiting on God is difficult, how to navigate these seasons, and the blessings that come from it.

In my most recent podcast episode, “How Long Lord?”, I share one of my first experiences in life with setback and delay – which happened when I was 6 years old!

That delay came with all the feels one can imagine: rejection; failure; disappointment; shame. You name it.

One reason why waiting on God is difficult is because it can involve these heavy feelings. We may even face ridicule, judgement, and accusations from others. Our lives may be disrupted by it. We may lose sleep, reputations, relationships, finances, opportunities, motivation, YOU NAME IT!

In this personal story I share on the podcast, it wasn’t until years and years later that I saw the benefit in that setback at 6 years old – and can I say that it didn’t destroy me? Life went on, and life was still good!

Has your waiting cost you anything?

Other reasons why waiting on God is difficult Are:

1. Human Nature Craves Control

As humans, we naturally want to control our circumstances. We desire immediate answers and quick resolutions. Waiting challenges this desire and forces us to relinquish control, which can be incredibly uncomfortable.

2. Fear and Doubt

Extended periods of waiting can breed fear and doubt. We start questioning if God has forgotten us or if our prayers will ever be answered. This inner turmoil can make the waiting period feel even more excruciating.

3. Societal Pressure

In a fast-paced world where instant gratification is the norm, waiting feels countercultural. Society often equates quick success with value, making prolonged waiting periods seem like failures.

How we can begin to breathe while waiting on God?

1. Embrace the purpose that waiting serves in our lives

2. Learn to be at peace with the idea of waiting

3. Understand that waiting isn’t an existential circumstance or something that may happen upon some and not others, but it is a universal part of life – so we don’t feel so stunted or restless when it is our turn to wait

4. Consider that sometimes in the waiting, we are able to see circumstances more clearly.

5. Yield to the truth that the world and all that is in it belongs to God. He is the first and final say and He knows you best.

To wait on God demonstrates a great act of humility.

1 Peter 5:6-7 says, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time…”.

When we choose not to get ahead of God, or not to lean on our own understanding, we are affirming to both God and ourselves that we understand that He is God. We understand that our lives are no longer our own, and that He has purposes in which for us to serve. As we wait, we are in essence saying, “Yes to Your way Father”.

Accepting seasons of waiting is also acknowledging and accepting that waiting is a natural part of life. If we are conditioned to believe that waiting is a happenstance occurrence that only a select few people face, or that it always represents misfortune, we will mistakenly believe that waiting is unusual and a sort of punishment. We will find ourselves waltzing with depression and anxiety to an unending song that never comes to an end.

Another perspective to consider is that waiting on God gives time for the dust to settle. It affords us the ability to determine if we still want a thing, it gives us the dignity to actually earn a thing, put in the work and sweat for a thing, be diligent and disciplined, it gives time for the emotions to balance and us to get over the initial brunt and making fatal decisions that only occur in the midst of haste.

Waiting on God affords us perspective that we wouldn’t otherwise have

waiting allows us to catch signs and deals that were under the surface

waiting helps us to uncover our why

Tools as you are Navigating the Waiting Period

1. Prayer and Reflection

During times of waiting, deepening your prayer life can provide comfort and clarity. Reflecting on scriptures that emphasize patience and trust can reinforce your faith. Verses like Isaiah 40:31, “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength,” can be a source of encouragement. I came up on this powerful read that reminded me that God will not be rushed but He also will never be late!

2. Community Support

Leaning on your faith community can make the waiting period more bearable. Sharing your struggles and receiving support from others who understand can lighten the emotional load.

3. Focus on Growth

Waiting periods are prime times for personal and spiritual growth. Use this time to develop new skills, deepen your understanding of God’s word, and strengthen your character. Viewing this period as an opportunity rather than a setback can transform your perspective.

The Blessings of Waiting on God

1. Increased Faith

Waiting builds trust in God’s timing and plan. It’s in these periods that faith is tested and strengthened. Each moment of patience is a step closer to a more profound, unwavering faith.

2. Greater Clarity

Sometimes, answers aren’t immediate because we aren’t ready for them. Waiting allows time for greater clarity and understanding. God may be preparing you for something far greater than you can currently comprehend.

3. Appreciation and Gratitude

When answers finally come, the waiting period makes us more appreciative of God’s blessings. We recognize the value of patience and the beauty of God’s perfect timing.

Before we Part

When waiting on God becomes difficult, it’s crucial to remember that this season is temporary and purposeful. It can be a positive time to embrace prayer, testify to the goodness of God, lean on your community, and focus on grasping the heart of God far above anything He can grant you.

Patience in waiting is not just about enduring the passage of time; it’s about trusting God’s perfect plan and timing. In the end, those who wait on the Lord will indeed find their strength renewed and their faith deeply enriched.