by June Patrick
The calendar on my phone keeps reminding me, “No upcoming events”. Most of us are in this holding pattern and desiring to see it end! Let’s face it, we don’t like to wait. Yet, that’s exactly what we have been forced to do during this pandemic. Let’s look to God’s word for some encouragement in the meantime.
First, we can call upon the power of the Holy Spirit! He is our Comforter-one who gives strength and hope, consolation in time of trouble or worry, assistance or support. He is our Counselor-one who gives advice or wisdom. Our Strengthener-makes stronger, supports. Our Helper-gives assistance or support, rescues or saves. Our Standby-one to be relied on, especially in emergencies. Our Intercessor-offers prayer, petition or entreaty in favor of another. And our Advocate-one who pleads the cause of another, defends. Not to mention that patience is one of the 9 fruits of The Spirit that he produces in us, along with love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control. Wow! I feel better already!
King David encourages himself in Psalm 27:14, “Wait patiently for the Lord, be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” Then again in Psalm 62:1-2, “I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken.”
In Isaiah 64:4 we’re told, “For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you who works for those who wait for him”. Now in Isaiah 30:18 we find out that God actually waits for us! “So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.” You can shout Hallelujah now!!