*Original post appeared on the Middle Places
I began sobbing uncontrollably in the middle of reading Dr. Seuss’ Oh the Places You’ll Go. I am not afraid to admit I was reading the book alone – it was and still is my all-time favorite book. At first, I was fine, skimming the pages as the Doctor reminded me of all the great adventures to come; but then I found myself reading about the place I am far too familiar with in this season of life – The Waiting Place. It is the place that brings anxiety, doubt and fear of the unknown journey ahead of me.
I am in a season of preparation. God has made that part very clear to me. What is not clear? For what He is preparing me. The last few weeks have been a roller-coaster ride of waits, not yets and just a little longers. And though I know the waiting place is exactly where I need to be, it does not make it any easier. I have to constantly remind myself I may not want this, but God knows I need this.
I think if life’s sabbatical had an expiration date I would not be so anxious, fearful or doubtful. But how can my faith be strengthened and tested if I knew the exact plan He was laying out for me? So instead of focusing on what I cannot control, I am choosing to focus on what I can glean from the waiting place.
God knows exactly what He is doing. I cannot see the bigger picture. He can.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
God’s plan is best. I know from trying to make my own path it is better to wait patiently upon Him.
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” Psalm 37:7
God wants my perspective to change. My motives may need some adjusting.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
Maybe you find yourself in the same waiting place.
- You are waiting for a job.
- You are waiting for your spouse.
- You are waiting for a miracle.
- You are waiting for an answer.
Where are you on hold?
It is easy to begin to doubt if God even remembers you are in this waiting place, but trust me, He does. Timeouts are never going to be easy and rarely are they fun, but all God’s children need them from time to time. Often, God puts us there so we can learn to lean on Him and not ourselves. Sometimes, He puts us in the waiting place to protect us from something that is good but not great. And other times, we put ourselves there because we did not seek Him. Regardless of why we are there, this can be an invaluable time for us to learn, grow and trust the One that will lead us to the next stop in our journey.
Leave a Reply