Don't Wait in Vain

A traffic light timer is there so you know how long you need to stop. I actually like it because it tells me if I could still send a text message or update a Twitter post while waiting. It's easy to wait when you have an idea of what you're looking forward to.

We live by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7, NIV)

But not seeing what you're waiting for is exasperating, especially when you're waiting on a promise. You know it's gonna happen, you believe it will come, you have envisioned it but right now it just doesn't seem obtainable.

And it's harder to wait when at this moment there's a struggle. I personally find it hard to focus on the promise when I'm facing hardships. I know this too, shall pass, but what I'd like to know is when. But the answer is not always available. Enter: faith.

By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. (Hebrews 11:24-25, NIV)

Moses decided that he would face his challenges rather than find a shortcut to a comfortable life. He refused the wealth and privilege given to him by his title.  He knew that if he chose the latter, his pleasures will only be temporary, so he chose what was more important.

He valued suffering in the Messiah's camp far greater than Egyptian wealth because he was looking ahead, anticipating the payoff. (Hebrews 11:26, The Msg)

If we know what to value in this lifetime, if we choose what is right and pleasing to God, if we allow our sufferings to build our character and make us stronger, if we look forward to what's ahead even when we're unsure of what we face... as long as we hold on to God and His promises, we will surely reap our rewards.

He had his eye on the One no eye can see, and kept right on going. (Hebrews 11:27, The Msg)