“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.
Isaiah 55:8
Some things in life require a quick response—with others, we can wait. A sudden banging noise in your car or a bodily ailment that won’t go away may require an urgent answer. Other situations may not be urgent but are nonetheless puzzling. Our first thought is likely, “What does this mean, God?” In such cases, it pays to wait on the Lord.
The Babylonian exile of the Jews was, no doubt, a confusing time. The prophet Isaiah encouraged them to “seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6). Then God spoke: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways” (verse 8). He also said that He never sends forth His word (His will) without it accomplishing its purpose (verse 11). Whatever His will is, “you shall go out with joy, and be led out with peace” (verse 12).
If you are in a situation you don’t understand, trust that God is accomplishing His will in your life. And rest in His joy and peace as you wait upon Him.
To wait on God is to live a life of desire toward Him, delight in Him, dependence on Him, and devotedness to Him.
