WAITING

Then she said, ‘Sit, then, my daughter, until you know how the matter falls into place; for the man will not remain quiet until he has finished the matter today.’ Ruth 3:18

No one likes to wait. Whether it is at a red light, in the waiting room in the doctor’s office, or for the waitress to bring out your meal. Time is valuable, so why spend it waiting when you can be doing something more productive? And yet there are times when waiting can teach some valuable lessons.

Waiting strengthens your faith. As humans we like to take things into our own hands. Faith demands that we let God work. From a human perspective, Ruth had done everything she could. She had diligently worked. She had made her needs and desires known to Boaz. Now it is time to wait and allow her faith to grow.

Waiting also provides us with an opportunity to rest in God. If we are not careful we get too busy doing things and forget the important role that God plays in every situation. Those with a small view of God can’t rest and be at peace because they think it all depends on their activity. Those with a large view of God know how to rest securely in His arms knowing that He will work everything out.

Finally, waiting reminds us that God is working. Naomi gently reminded Ruth of this by pointing out that her lover is busy settling things. What is our Lover doing today? He is interceding (Hebrews 7:25), arranging everything for our benefit (Romans 8:28), accomplishing His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13), and preparing a place for us to be with Him forever. (John 14:2-3). Aren’t those wonderful truths that can help you to rest today?

Philip Moeller