We live in a fast paced world. It seems like people thrive on fast food, fast Internet and fast cars. They want to get ahead of the other guy. We tell people, “Eat my dust” and compete in what some call a “rat race”. We want things “ASAP” or “Done yesterday” (Is that even possible?) Some even say, “I can’t wait for tomorrow!” (What else are they going to do?) Such frenzied living has caused many to be stressed out and others to suffer from mental and physical maladies.
This impatient attitude has afflicted some of God’s children. In the time of Isaiah, Jerusalem was beset round about by enemies. They were crying out for deliverance and thought that God wasn’t listening or was unable to help in their time of great need. This led many to despair and others to give up their faith and turn to idolatry. They demanded that God operate on their time table. However, in Chapter Forty, Isaiah comforts the people, reminding them of God’s wisdom and power. He then instructs them to “wait” on the Lord and reminds them that those who patiently wait on the Lord will be blessed. (v. 31).
Like Jerusalem of old, we must learn to trust in God and allow Him to work things out in His own time. Christians are encouraged, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5). We are to walk by faith not by sight (II Corinthians 5:7). Those who are impatient with God are walking by sight. Faith is unshakable acceptance that leaves no room for doubt. When one walks by faith, he takes God at His word and trusts in His Wisdom. Prayer must be offered in faith without wavering (James 1:5). Persistence in prayer doesn’t imply doubt or impatience (Luke 11:6-8).
One thing that will help with impatience in life (secular and spiritual) is to learn contentment. Paul stated, “...I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Paul declared, “...I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day (II Timothy 1:12). So, when things seem hopeless, wait on the Lord and He will deliver you!
Bruce Stulting