Waiting for God

18 MARCH

Let this be the reward of mine adversaries from the LORD, and of them that speak evil against my soul. Psalm 109:20

SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Isaiah 30:18-26

David did not rashly or unadvisedly utter curses against his enemies but strictly adhered to what the Spirit dictated. I acknowledge that many people pretend to have similar confidence and hope, but who nevertheless recklessly rush beyond the bounds of temperance and moderation. But what David beheld by the unclouded eye of faith, he also uttered  with the zeal of a sound mind; for, having devoted himself to the cultivation of piety under the protection of Gods hand, he was aware that the day was approaching when his enemies would experience the punishment they had earned.

We learn that David's trust was placed in God alone. He did not look to people to direct his course according to whether the world smiled or frowned upon him. We can be sure that whosoever places his dependence on people will find that the most trifling incident will annoy him.

Therefore, even if the whole world abandons us, we, like this holy man, should lift up our heads to heaven and look there for our defender and deliverer. If God intends to use human instruments for our deliverance, He will soon raise up people to accomplish that purpose. But if He chooses to try our faith by depriving us of all earthly assistance, we should not regard that as any negative reflection upon the glory of His name. Rather, we should wait until the proper time when God fully  makes known His decision in which we can calmly acquiesce.

John Calvin

FOR MEDITATION: Patience in waiting for an answer to prayer, especially a prayer for deliverance, must be consciously cultivated if we are to avoid losing confidence in God and His ways. But while waiting is a challenge, the Spirit often uses it to teach us to look to heaven, not people, for deliverance. What lessons have you learned about the Lord or about yourself while waiting on Him in prayer?

365 Days With Calvin

Selected and Edited By Joel R. Beeke