The Art of Waiting:
Lessons from Abraham's Journey

The Art of Waiting:
Lessons from Abraham's Journey

Based on the sermon: The Wait, preached by Lolu Oluwaniyi at Estuary Elim Ashingdon on 7 April 2024

In life, waiting is inevitable. Whether it's waiting for customer service, transportation, or significant life outcomes like job offers or medical results, the waiting game can stir up a whirlwind of emotions - impatience, frustration, anxiety. We've all been there.

As Christians, our waiting can take on a unique dimension. We pray and expect swift answers, often on our terms. But what happens when God's timing doesn't align with ours? Are we prepared for the waiting room of faith?

Let's journey through the story of Abraham, a man who exemplifies the art of waiting and the transformation it brings.

Understanding the Call to Wait
Abraham's journey began with a divine call - leave everything familiar and step into the unknown - The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father's family, and go to the land that I will show you." (Genesis 12:1). Imagine the expectations Abraham might have harboured: fulfilment, guidance, and, most importantly, the promise of descendants despite his age.

The Struggle in the Silence
Abraham's waiting wasn't smooth sailing. As years passed with no child in sight, doubts crept in. He took matters into his own hands, leading to complications and heartache (Genesis 16). The silence of God during these 13 years was deafening, yet pivotal.

Lessons Learned in the Waiting Room
Abraham's waiting period was more than just a timeline; it was a classroom of character development:
Shift in Perspective: Abraham moved from immediate desires to eternal priorities, recognizing God's perfect timing.
Character Development: Patience, perseverance, and humility blossomed in Abraham's heart.
Alignment with God's Will: He sought, discerned, and aligned his desires with God's purpose.
Dependency on God: Trusting God's wisdom and strength over human understanding.
Increased Faith: Learning to deepen his trust in God's character and faithfulness.

The Reward of Endurance
After 25 years of waiting, God revealed Himself anew to Abraham (Genesis 17). The waiting bore fruit - Isaac, the son of promise, arrived at the appointed time. Abraham's journey of faith prepared him to receive and steward God's blessings with a matured heart.

Application and Encouragement
Abraham's story speaks volumes to us today:
Rest in God's Timing: Trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty.
Grow in Waiting: Embrace the waiting room as a season of spiritual growth.
Align with God's Will: Surrender desires to God's perfect plan.
Strengthen Faith: Believe that God's promises will come to fruition in His time.

Conclusion
In the art of waiting, God shapes our hearts, refines our character, and deepens our faith. Let's take a page from Abraham's journey and embrace the waiting room of faith with hopeful expectation. As we wait, let's draw closer to God, knowing that His timing is always perfect.

May we echo the words of Isaiah 40:31 "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."

Let us wait patiently and trustfully, for in God's time, His promises will unfold beautifully.