“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Psalm 27:14
We’ve all been there haven’t we? Waiting rooms. Waiting rooms of hospitals, airports, schools, etc. We are equally familiar, no doubt, with the 'waiting rooms of life' - the pauses, the spaces where nothing’s happening, we’re not going anywhere; we are, well, just waiting.
The question is, are there lessons
to be learnt in these pauses? Absolutely, waiting can teach us a lot!
Patience and Resilience
Waiting in long lines or for delayed flights can teach us to be patient and resilient, reminding us that not everything is within our control.
Appreciation for the Present
Waiting for a special event or occasion often leads to a deeper appreciation for the present moment once it finally arrives, highlighting the value of anticipation.
Self-Reflection and Growth
Waiting for opportunities, like job offers or replies from universities, can prompt self-reflection and personal growth, as it gives us time to evaluate our desires and goals.
Understanding Others’ Perspectives
Waiting for someone else's decision or action allows us to understand their perspective, teaching empathy and consideration for different timelines and priorities.
Problem-Solving Skills
Long waits, such as during traffic jams or unexpected delays, can encourage creativity and problem-solving as we find ways to make the most of the situation.
These lessons, often unexpected and unanticipated (because then season of waiting is often unexpected and unanticipated ) can shape us and our perspectives as we prepare for the moment when that which we have been waiting for is realised. The fulfilment of our hope wil make the waiting worthwhile, but until then, let's learn what we can, as much as we can, while we wait.
Points to Ponder
What lessons in addition to those mentioned above can be learnt in the waiting rooms of life?
What lessons have you personally learnt as you went through the waiting seasons in your life?
Prayer
Teach me Lord what you want me to know,
In this season as I watch and wait;
Help me grow as I need to, learn;
Believing you're never too early, nor too late.