Session 14

Why waiting is worth it

From 2 Samuel: A 5-Week Devotional

David knew God had called him to be king, but the journey from the field to the palace was hard fought and often bloody. David could have taken his leadership position by force many times. But instead, David waited patiently, believing God’s timing was best.

In 2 Samuel 5, the fateful day arrived where David became king of all of Israel. Soon after, the Jebusites taunted David’s ability to conquer and defeat them (2 Samuel 5:6-7). Their threats proved weak and empty as David quickly defeated his enemies and took residence in their city. God rewarded David’s patience and faithfulness by establishing a home for David and growing his family.

Waiting on God’s timing goes against our human nature, but God rewards those who wait for Him.

God rewarded David’s patience and faithfulness, and David became “more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him” (2 Samuel 5:10).

As we read about David, we have the advantage of knowing the anointed shepherd boy becomes king of God’s people. But David wasn’t so lucky. He didn’t have the plans all laid out for him. Instead, David had to trust God step by step.

Waiting on God’s timing goes against our human nature, but God rewards those who wait for Him. As we wait for God to give us direction and answer our prayers, we can wait with hope and not desperation. Isaiah 40:31 promises, “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”

Reflect:

• What are you waiting on? What is God asking you to do while you wait?
• Have you ever ignored God’s instruction and rushed ahead to take something that’s been promised to you? What did you learn from that experience?