Waiting is no fun. Even waiting in line can cause me to become irritated and frustrated more quickly than I’d like to admit. And this side of heaven, we’re all waiting for things, big and small. Waiting well is hard.

In my women’s Bible study at Willowdale Chapel we’re studying women of the New Testament. The first woman we looked at was Elizabeth. Elizabeth was barren and to put it bluntly, old. I’m sure she had given up, but probably still felt shame and disappointment. Having children back then was a status symbol and also practical–you had someone to take care of you as you aged. But despite being “righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments of the Lord” (Luke 1: 6) Elizabeth and her husband, Zachariah, had no children. Finally, a miracle happened! She conceived and had a son-John the Baptist. (You can read more of her story in Luke 1:5-25, 39-45, 57-66.)

One of the questions in the study encouraged reflecting on a time when you did not receive something you longed for deeply. There are several examples that came to my mind, but here is one in particular that I’d like to share. 

I have always had a passion for missions and travel. My background in social work meant that my mission field was often the same as my work as a therapist, but I often dreamt of doing something more. Years ago, through Willowdale Chapel, I learned about International Justice Mission (IJM). They are a Christian organization doing amazing work around the world fighting modern day slavery. I really loved their mission and looked into what it might look like to work with them. I found out they had volunteer fellowship positions for many specialties, but what caught my interest was the one in Aftercare, which, among other things, required a Master of Social Work. Finding mission work in social work is surprisingly hard, and I was excited to see an opportunity for something that seemed tailored specifically for me. 

Before applying I decided to get to know more about IJM by attending their Global Prayer Gathering in Washington D.C. Despite my intimidation of going alone, I had such an eye-opening experience. The speakers, worship, breakout prayer groups–all of it was intense, powerful, sad, and yet hopeful. During the conference I really felt drawn towards applying for the fellowship position. But despite my desire, I also felt God saying “no.” I remember crying during one of the worship sets–so disappointed and hurt. I knew God was probably tapping the shoulders of people who didn’t want to go, and here I was, ready and willing and He was clearly telling me that this was not the right time. I threw a bit of a temper tantrum. And I grieved. But ultimately was obedient to what I felt God telling me. 

Fast forward several years. I had done a lot of work and healing. I had grown and was in a much better place–physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I again looked into fellowships with IJM and they had the same opportunities. I grew excited reading the description of what they were looking for, knowing that I had that exact skill set and experience. This time as I prayed about it, I felt God telling me to move forward with the process. It was nerve wracking and a step of faith for sure, but doors started to open and there was confirmation after confirmation that this is where God wanted me to be. I ended up serving with IJM for one and a half years in South Asia in their Aftercare Department, helping with lots of things, but specifically putting together a training manual for a trauma-based therapy which I’m certified in. It was an amazing and challenging opportunity. 

So, like Elizabeth, this is an example of when waiting on God’s timing did result in the desired outcome. But there are many things that we’re still waiting on. There are definitely specific desires I have that haven’t come to fruition yet and that’s hard. But I pray that Elizabeth’s story and mine give you hope and the perseverance to wait well. 

Here are some verses of encouragement as we wait: 

Psalm 130: 5 – I will wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope.

Lamentations 3: 25 – The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. 

Romans 8:18 – For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 

Philippians 1:6 – And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

ABOUT OUR BLOGGER

Danielle (Dani) Rupp grew up in a small town in Ohio and is a true Buckeye fan, though she tries not to be obnoxious about it. In 2011 she came to PA to earn her Master of Social Work degree. After graduation Dani accepted a position as a mental health therapist for children and adolescents in Coatesville. She was a nanny for several years as well. During that time she lived in Kennett Square and attended Willowdale Chapel. She returned several years ago from South Asia where she learned to tolerate spicy food and cross the roads without being hit, as well as volunteered with International Justice Mission in their Aftercare Department. In her free time, Dani enjoys going on mission trips/traveling, running, reading, and connecting with loved ones—preferably over coffee and a sweet treat.