Waiting isn’t typically associated with fun. For many, it’s a means to an end, and the sooner that end comes, the better. On-demand services promise to make our lives easier and more productive. And of course, we appreciate the increased efficiency, since it means speedy results. But has our fast-paced world cost us the ability to enjoy the wait? Some of the best moments in life come because of waiting. From major milestones like waiting nine months for a baby to develop, to minor events like waiting two minutes in front of the microwave for the popcorn to be ready before binge-watching a show on Netflix. And think about it, what would Christmas be like if we never had to wait for it? It’s our anticipation of the day that helps to pack it with wonder. So, if you find yourself between blessings, take heart! Rather than view the waiting season as an unnecessary nuisance, take on a new perspective. Here are a few ideas you can reflect on to keep you motivated as you wait.

Remember the Whys

Desiring something can birth a powerful willingness in us, a resolve to wait. After all, the more we want something, the more likely we’re able to find the capacity to wait for it. All that we value and want most turn out to be our whys. While in the waiting room, it can be easy to get discouraged with doubts. Those are the times when we must recall our whys. We can trust with hope and expectation that all we've waited for is worth the time we've invested.

Hold to God’s Promises

Throughout the Bible, we see waiting as an important part of the journey to self-discovery and a deepening relationship with God. A common thread in stories like those of Job, Jacob, and Joseph, more than all their names beginning with the letter J, is that they all waited through unfavorable seasons in their lives to get to God’s promise for them. Likewise, when we’re on the sidelines, we should remember God never breaks his word. Regardless of our present circumstance, we can hold to God’s promises as ammunition to our patience.

Build an Unbreakable Spirit

God uses our waiting periods to comfort us, cultivate our character, and create unbreakable spirits within us. Maintaining intimacy with him, even when things aren't going our way, is an opportunity to increase our faith. Seeking God awakens us to how the process of waiting can heal and restore our lives. And so waiting becomes the perfect amount of pressure needed to bring us to the next level. Whenever you're presented with a pause in life requiring a longer wait than you would've liked, reflect on what God may be trying to give you in process. There are untold blessings that will come your way by being patient in the wait.