Wait upon the Lord

By Dr. Charles Stanley

Scripture: Psalm 40:1

Practicing patience is hard work! This is especially true when we are waiting upon the Lord, who keeps to His own timetable. But believers who trust God to deliver are richly rewarded with the desires of their heart.

A person’s willingness to wait reveals the value of what he or she desires. Imagine, for example, a young woman who yearns for a husband. She must decide whether to place greater importance upon a) getting married or b) waiting patiently for a mate chosen by God. If her priority is the former, she may accept an offer that is less than the Lord’s best for her. The fellow in question might be a good Christian but not a man suited for this particular young lady.

No one goes wrong waiting for the Lord to send His best in His perfect timing. Of course, believers don’t receive everything they request. At times God simply says no. In other cases, He adjusts our desire to match His own. In our humanness, we can’t possibly know all the details of a situation. So we ask for what we think we need, based on our limited information. A submissive heart accepts the omnipotent Father’s gentle redirection. When the awaited object of desire comes, it may not look like what the believer originally requested, but it will be exactly what he or she needs.

Waiting patiently on the Lord is an awesome witness. When He responds, others see the reality of God, His faithfulness, and the wisdom of our commitment. In addition, our own faith is strengthened. Fools rush to seize their prize. But wise believers know that blessing will come in God’s good time.

Be Like Jesus

By Max Lucado

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 2:5, NKJV

What does it mean to be just like Jesus?  The world has never known a heart so pure, a character so flawless.  His spiritual hearing was so keen He never missed a heavenly whisper.  His mercy so abundant He never missed a chance to forgive.  No lie left His lips, no distraction marred His vision.  He touched when others recoiled.  He endured when others quit.  Jesus is the ultimate model for every person.