Watch and Wait

When I see something that needs to done or fixed, my first inclination is to make a plan, figure it out and get it done.  Are you a 'fixer' like me?

God regularly stops me and tells me there is a better way. He challenges me to bring the issue that is bothering me to him and let him take care of it. He promises that the outcome will be better if I let him take control.

So I have to smile as I read Zechariah's story in the book of Luke.  Zechariah was a priest. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were old and childless when the angel of the LORD appeared to him.  Yes, Gabriel showed up again.

Zechariah was "gripped with fear" when he saw Gabriel.  Angels like Gabriel must be awesome creatures because the first thing they always say to us humans is, "Fear not". Then Gabriel went on to tell Zechariah that he and Elizabeth were going to have a son who was going to do great things for God. They were to name this son John and he was going to prepare the way for the Messiah.

Immediately, Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years." Luke 1:18. He and his wife were obviously way too old to have a baby.

Gabriel looked at him (how I see this in my head - rolled his eyes and, with a hint of frustration in his voice), said, "I am Gabriel.  I stand in the presence of God and I have been sent to speak to you and tell you this good news.  Now you will be silent and not speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will be come true at their appointed time."  Luke 1:18.

Zechariah could not speak again until the baby was born.  He had to watch and wait.

I have learned that sometimes I need to stop asking questions, trust God and watch him work things out for my good right in front of my eyes - through his power and on his own timeline.
 
I'm not very patient.  How much patience do you have?

It can be very difficult for me to wait for God to move but, when he does, it's the right thing at the right time, every time.  It's truly amazing to watch as God opens doors, moves mountains and orchestrates blessings in my life.

 I'll admit, this hasn't been an easy lesson for me to learn. I had to grow my trust in God to the point where I can give him my problems, issues and situations and leave it all in his hands.  And watch.  And wait until he shows me which door he is opening for me.

It's not easy but - believe me - it's worth it.

Thank you for moving, Abba Father, as I watch wait.