Trust In God’s Timing: All We Need Is Just A Little Patience

It’s a word we hear often, but living it out can feel like an uphill battle. In a world of instant gratification, where we can get what we want with a few clicks, waiting is a lost skill. Patience isn't just a virtue; it's a evidence of the Holy Spirit, a reflection of our faith in a God (who is sovereign over all things), and the byproduct of a spirituality mature child of God.

The Bible has a lot to say about patience. And, yes, is not all about Job. The Scriptures are full of wisdom that can guide us on this journey toward a patient life. Let's look at what Scripture reveals about waiting on God and why it's so important for our spiritual growth.

Patience is a Fruit of the Spirit

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, lists the nine fruits of the Spirit. Right there in the middle, we find patience. Galatians 5:22-23 says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." The word "longsuffering" here is another way of saying patience.

This is a powerful truth. Patience isn't something we can muster up on our own. It's a supernatural gift that God gives us through the Holy Spirit. When we are walking in step with the Spirit, we will naturally become more patient. This means that our lack of patience is often a symptom of a deeper issue – a lack of reliance on the Holy Spirit.

I’ve seen many grandparents display an enormous amount patience with their grandchildren. I’ve witnessed customer service workers (who can be true saints) deal with the cruelest of customers. I’ve watched mature christians forgive the vilest of offenders. Evidence of the Holy Spirit.

Patience is a Sign of Faith

When we are impatient, we are essentially saying, "God, I don't trust Your timing. My plan is better." We get anxious, we worry, and we try to take control. True patience is an act of surrendering our desires, our timelines, and our worries to God. It’s a declaration that we believe God is working, even when we can't see it. Trust in Him (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Consider the words of King David in Psalm 27:14: "Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" David knew what it was like to wait. He waited for years to become king after being anointed. He faced trials, enemies, and setbacks, yet he consistently encouraged himself and others to wait on the Lord. He understood that waiting isn't passive; it's an active exercise of faith, courage, and trust.

You may not have to wait 40 years to enter the promised land like the Israelites, or wait 30 years to start your ministry like Jesus, but good things come to those who wait. Maybe we should actually say great things come to those who wait! Because we have a great God that will do all good things in His time (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Patience is a Foundation For Service

Patience isn't just about enduring; it's about believing in the glorious outcome. The Bible promises that those who wait on the Lord will be rewarded. Servants of God build their lives on faithfulness. Waiting on the Lord is crucial.

Isaiah 40:31 is a beloved verse for a reason: "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." When we wait on God, He promises to infuse us with a strength that is not our own. He gives us the endurance to keep going when we feel like giving up.

James 1:4 tells us, "But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." Patience refines us. It burns away our selfish ambitions, our pride, and our need for control. It molds us into the image of Christ, making us "perfect and complete."

Patience Must Be Cultivated

So how do we grow in this essential virtue? It's a daily practice, but one thing we can do is pray for patience. It seems simple, but it's the most crucial step. Ask the Lord to produce this fruit in you. Pray for the strength to wait and the faith to trust.

Look beyond the things of this world and focus your eyes on the cross and to Jesus. Instead of focusing on the delay, focus on the Deliverer. Spend time in worship and praise, reminding yourself of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Immerse yourself in God's Word. Reading about the patience of Abraham, the perseverance of Joseph, and the faithfulness of Jesus will build your faith and encourage your heart. You cannot read and meditate on God‘s worth near enough. Make it a priority.

Learn to embrace the process. See every waiting period not as a punishment but as an opportunity for growth. God is doing a good work in you, and that work takes time (Philippians 1:6).

Patience is a beautiful expression of our faith. It’s a quiet confidence that God is in control, that His plans are good, and that His timing is perfect. So the next time you find yourself waiting – for a job, for a spouse, for healing, or for an answer to prayer – remember to "wait on the LORD." He is faithful, and He will strengthen your heart.

As Axl once sang, “All we need is just a little patience.” He’s no prophet or preacher but the message still rings true. You’ve got this.

You are loved.

Ray Reynolds, PhD

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