This is such an interesting and subtle note that Luke, the author of Acts, makes here at the end of Acts 24. Paul spends two years living in Caesarea at Herod’s Palace under military monitoring, but he is still able to receive guests and meet regularly with Felix. This is not necessarily Paul’s choice, but I would venture to guess that through the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul is obediently doing kingdom work in this season.
There are times in my life when I was, not by my own choice, in a season of waiting. I can tell you, I did not move through those seasons with the grace and patience I imagine Paul did. During one season of waiting in particular, I did not see waiting as an opportunity to share the gospel with those around me. I did not see it as a time of refinement and possibly even rest. I was angry and bitter. Resentment grew. Fear of missed opportunities built up instead of faith in the Lord. When I look back on that season, I see now that God was giving me slowness and refreshment, and I wish I had trusted Him enough then to see it and receive it.
I can’t go back now and change my reaction, but I absolutely know there will be another season of waiting. Someday I might be waiting for healing, for a mended relationship, for a wayward child to come home, or for a longed-for grandchild. I don’t know what will come, but I know it will. My hope is that next time I will wait with joy and reverence with the Counselor guiding me through instead of relying on my own strength.
Are you in a season of waiting? Is there room for you to rely more on God in something you are waiting for?
May each waiting season be a testament to God’s goodness, mercy, and perfect timing.