Discovering Faith in the Waiting: Trusting God When Life Feels Out of Control

Have You Ever Felt Powerless?

Imagine a moment when everything seems to spiral out of control. Perhaps you’ve meticulously planned an event, only to watch it unravel in unexpected ways. Or maybe you’ve faced a situation where all you could do was wait, feeling utterly powerless. These moments can be frustrating, but they also serve as profound opportunities for spiritual growth.

In a recent sermon, we explored a powerful narrative from Luke 8:40-56, where two individuals, Jairus and an unnamed woman, encountered Jesus in their moments of desperation. Their stories remind us that faith is not about having control but about trusting Jesus, even when all we can do is wait.

Desperation as the Starting Point of Faith

Jairus, a respected synagogue leader, found himself in a situation beyond his control. His only daughter was dying, and despite his status and influence, he was powerless to save her. In a moment of desperation, he fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading for help. Similarly, a woman suffering from a chronic illness for 12 years reached out to Jesus in faith, believing that touching His robe would heal her.

These two individuals, one with a name and status, the other nameless and marginalized, both recognized their inability to control their circumstances. Their desperation was not a sign of weakness but the starting point of real faith. They turned to Jesus, acknowledging that only He could bring the healing and restoration they needed.

Faith in the Waiting

As Jesus journeyed with Jairus, He was interrupted by the woman’s touch. Despite the urgency of Jairus’ situation, Jesus paused to acknowledge her faith and heal her. This delay must have been excruciating for Jairus, who was anxiously waiting for Jesus to save his daughter. Yet, this moment teaches us a vital lesson: faith holds on when Jesus feels slow.

In our own lives, we may find ourselves waiting for God’s intervention, watching others receive their blessings while we remain in the waiting room. It’s tempting to feel forgotten or overlooked, but faith means trusting in God’s timing, even when it seems delayed. Jesus’ words to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe,” remind us that faith overcomes fear, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Practical Steps for Trusting God in the Waiting

1. Acknowledge Your Desperation: Recognize that feeling powerless is not a weakness but an opportunity to deepen your faith. Bring your fears and anxieties to God, trusting that He sees and hears you.
2. Hold on to God’s Promises: In moments of waiting, immerse yourself in Scripture. Reflect on God’s faithfulness and His promises to never leave or forsake you.
3. Seek Community Support: Share your struggles with trusted friends or church members who can pray with you and offer encouragement. You are not alone in your journey.
4. Embrace the Process: Understand that waiting is not wasted time. God is working in and through you, even when you can’t see it. Allow this season to strengthen your faith and character.

A Prayer for Faith in the Waiting

Heavenly Father, we come before You in our moments of desperation, acknowledging our need for Your presence and guidance. Help us to trust in Your timing and to hold on to faith, even when life feels out of control. Strengthen our hearts and remind us that You are always working for our good. May we find peace in Your promises and courage to believe that You are not finished with our stories. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

As you navigate the uncertainties of life, remember that God is with you in the waiting. He sees you, loves you, and is writing a story of redemption and hope. Don’t give up—keep believing, even when the path seems unclear.