We can spend half our lives waiting. In doctors’ waiting rooms, in traffic, in the store checkout line and on the computer watching the spinning cursor go around. When I find myself waiting on something, on someone or at some place, my shoulders tense up. My brain also doesn’t like the feeling when it doesn’t get that immediate answer or satisfaction. 

With technology developing faster, we don’t need to wait for very long. We can order food in less than a minute. We can shop for clothes or groceries without leaving the couch. We can connect with our friends in group chats, removing that in-person connection. We can make telehealth appointments with our doctors. When we need something, we get it instantly. 

So, what happens when we aren’t met with an instant gratification? Our muscles tense up. We are met with this uncomfortable feeling that we can’t deal with. When we don’t get an answer, do we give up? Do we throw in the towel? 

Picture this: I’m waiting in line at the store. The shopping carts slowly inch their way forward in the checkout line. My first instinct, as someone who is addicted to her phone, is to immediately hop on social media. However, my favorite grocery store has little Internet connection and so, I sit there, with no access to my phone, and stare blankly at the carts in front of me. I silently pray that this line moves fast. In this brief time without my phone, my thoughts are free. I can take this time, away from my phone, to concentrate on my thoughts. Waiting in line allows me to get off my phone and expand my mind. 

Patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). In one of the feature articles this month, we come face to face with our struggle to remain patient when waiting on God. God is not Amazon Prime or Postmates; God is not going to deliver (or answer) our prayer in 2-3 business days. Actually, God can seem silent for a long time. But waiting can allow us to learn more about God’s character and His love for us. Sitting in the waiting (room) isn’t the worst thing in the world. Relax your shoulders. You don’t need expedited shipping. Wait a while. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but the waiting is worth it.