While We Wait, He Waits
We’re often reminded to be patient with God—to trust that He works in His own time, never early, never late. We hear that His timing is perfect, and that He uses trials, frustrations, and seasons of life to teach us patience. But here’s something we don’t talk about enough: how patient God is with us.How often do we push ahead with our own plans, only to turn back to Him when things don’t work out? In those moments, we might forget that while we’re learning to wait on Him, He’s already been waiting on us—patiently, lovingly, all along.
The Bible is full of stories showing just how patient God is. Time and again, He waits on us to try things our own way before we finally come back to Him, asking for help. His patience is shown all over in Scripture:
Adam and Eve: After their big mistake in the Garden of Eden, God didn’t just give up on them. He set a plan in motion to bring them—and us—back to Him (Genesis 3).
Noah’s Generation: Before the flood, God put up with humanity’s wickedness for years, giving people plenty of chances to change their ways (Genesis 6:5-7, 1 Peter 3:20).
The Israelites: During their 40 years wandering in the wilderness, God didn’t abandon the Israelites, even when they were constantly complaining and disobeying Him (Exodus 16-17, Numbers 14).
Moses: God was patient with Moses, even when he doubted himself and tried to back out of leading the Israelites (Exodus 3-4).
Jonah: When Jonah tried to run away from what God asked him to do, God didn’t just let him go. He gave him another chance (Jonah 1-4).
David: Even after David’s serious mess-ups, like adultery and murder, God didn’t write him off. He forgave David when he repented (2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 51).
Peter and the Disciples: Jesus was so patient with His disciples, especially Peter, who denied Him three times. But Jesus welcomed Peter back with open arms (Luke 22:31-34, John 21:15-19).
Paul (Saul of Tarsus): Instead of punishing Saul for persecuting Christians, God completely transformed him into one of the most important voices for the gospel (Acts 9, 1 Timothy 1:16).
All of Us: God’s patience is for everyone. He doesn’t want anyone to miss out on knowing Him, and He’s not in a rush—He waits for us to come to Him (2 Peter 3:9).
All these examples show just how much God is willing to wait for us. He gives us time, space, and so many opportunities to turn back to Him because He loves us that much. God's willingness to wait and give us the opportunity to repent and return to Him is a testimony to His loving nature.
Honestly, there are days when I feel like I’m just running my own race, charging ahead full speed, thinking I’ve got it all figured out. And I imagine God watching, perhaps shaking His head, just waiting for me to slow down, realize I’m off course, and finally let Him guide me. He’s so patient, waiting for me to finally tire myself out, be still and listen. To hear His leading voice and to notice those little nudges He’s been sending my way.
I’m so grateful for God’s patience with me. I’m so thankful that God is endlessly patient with me, that He waits for me to come to Him, even when I’ve tried to do it all on my own. He still shows up, still finds favor in me, and I’m beyond thankful that He waits for me to catch up and be present with Him.
As I reflect on the vastness of God’s patience, I’m reminded that it’s not just about waiting on God—it’s about recognizing that He’s waiting on us, too. Maybe it’s time to ask: how often do I take His patience for granted? And what would change if I slowed down enough to meet Him in that place of stillness, letting His love and guidance lead the way?