“Not Yet”
By Dianne Prince
“And He [Jesus] led them [the disciples] out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple praising and blessing God. Amen” (Luke 24:50-53, NKJV).
Many times, God’s answer to our prayers is “not yet” because the time is not right for the answer to be manifested. Today’s scripture reminds us of what to do and how to wait when God puts us in a holding pattern.
While waiting for the Holy Spirit to come, the disciples did not sit idly, wondering when or if Jesus would deliver on His promise to send His Holy Spirit to dwell within and among the people. They were not anxious, nor were they stressed. Instead, they held a continuous praise and worship service, in anticipation of the Holy Spirit’s arrival.
In the same way, while waiting for our prayers to be answered, the Bible says our time should not be spent wondering, doubting, or questioning if and when Jesus will come through. Instead, we are to put extra effort into worshipping God while waiting for Him to move. Worship Him for His unlimited power, for His infinite knowledge, and for His protective hand. And put extra effort into praising Him for everything He has done for us and for everything we expect Him to do.
Be reminded that worship ushers in God’s presence and thanksgiving gives us access to His peace.
Today, while waiting on God, fill your days with worship and your nights with praise. If a negative thought begins to creep in, replace it with praise. If your mind begins to play “what if” games with you, replace it with thanksgiving.
And know today that your “wait” period is temporary. Jesus will move at the appointed time. So, wait prayerfully. Wait patiently. Wait with joy. And wait with confidence that what God promised will come to pass.
