Jan 13 Devotion: Wise to Wait

1).  Out of the depths have I cried to thee, O Lord.  2).  Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.  3).  If thou Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?  4).  But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.  5).  I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.  6).  My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning.  7).  Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.  8).  And he shall redeem Israel from all his inequities.

                                    PSALM 130:1-8

In order to keep in step with the Lord, we need to carry out His instructions in accordance with His timetable. In God’s kingdom, waiting means seeking further direction from Him while remaining in our present circumstances. It encompasses both an attitude of expectancy (God, what would You like me to do?) and one of readiness (God, I am willing to do as You direct.) It is our wisest course of action because we will ...  

• Receive direction. When faced with a decision, we too often let ourselves be influenced by pressures or preferences. But God is the only source of true wisdom. He is omniscient and answers us on the basis of His complete understanding. He is willing to give us clear instructions for any decisions we are trying to make (SEE PSALM 32:8). Why? Because He wants the very best for us.

• Get onto His timetable. God will also use the waiting period to bring us in line with His perfect timing. Knowing we are walking in concert with God will bring His divine peace to our heart.

• Be prepared for His answer and course of action. God may use a season of waiting to help us recognize unrighteous motives and sin or to strengthen our faith.

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Acting wisely begins with hearing from the Lord. So make it a goal to listen closely, and remain ready to do as He asks.

-IBC