“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

In a day and age of instant gratification, we dislike waiting. Waiting in line at the drive thru to get our morning coffee. Waiting to get results from a test (academic or medical). Waiting to see results from a new diet and exercise program we are starting. Waiting for God to answer a prayer.

I don’t know about you, but when a website is taking more than five seconds to load, I get impatient and reload the page. Nevertheless, there is something almost gratifying when I get something after working hard or even waiting for it. And that is what I think this verse is saying. Those who wait for the Lord’s answer will gain renewed strength. It is an attitude of our faith. I ask God for general guidance or for something specific, knowing that He knows best and will answer me in His time. After all, that is why I’m asking for His help.

Most anyone who has asked God for something has experienced not getting an immediate response, but once we do get a response, it’s clear that that is the best answer for us.

Faith knows no weariness, even though as humans we do get tired of waiting. But those who endure and keep pursuing things are greatly blessed. If I stick to a rigid exercise program and healthy eating, I will see weight loss, more cardio endurance, or muscle formation. But as with everything, I fail when I’m on my own. I need God for everything — great or small.

How many of us can look back on life’s path and see the times when we listened to God’s direction and the other times when we did not necessarily listen or perhaps didn’t even ask God for direction or guidance. There’s quite a difference!

So, now for your homework. I encourage you to ask God for help with everything. If you want to stick to a healthy lifestyle for 2017, then ask God for help with it. If you are miserable with your job, then ask God what you should do next. If you are tired of the cold, dreary winter, then ask Him where you should go. Whatever it is, remember to wait on the Lord for the answer! It’s easy to fail when making solo decisions. But God knows best.

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.