What Are We Waiting For? | The Discipline of Waiting | John Baker

Main Text: Romans 8:18-25 (Focus on Verse 25) I. Introduction: The Universal Struggle of Waiting Main Point:In a world obsessed with speed, waiting feels inefficient. Yet, in God’s plan, waiting serves as a tool for spiritual growth and Christlikeness. Key Scripture:Romans 8:25 calls us to "wait patiently for what we do not yet have," trusting God’s timing and goodness. II. The Desire and Definition of Waiting Desire of Waiting:Christians are called to trust in God’s promises, not just endure delays. Waiting reflects active hope in God. Definition of Waiting:Waiting involves patient endurance and faith, embracing it as a spiritual discipline that deepens trust in God. III. The Practice of Waiting with God Avoiding Worst-Case Scenarios:Waiting can fuel fears and doubts, but faith directs us to trust instead of worry. Staying Present with God:God meets us in the present, not in our imagined future or past. Living Fully Now:Waiting doesn’t mean postponing life. Trust God to fulfill His plan in His time. Surrendering Control:Waiting requires releasing our timetables to God. Allowing Space for Growth:Waiting fosters patience, faith, and grace. IV. The Fruit of Waiting with God Adopting God’s View of Time:God’s perspective is eternal, and His timing is always perfect. Sustaining Hope Amid Delays:True hope flourishes when circumstances challenge us. Thriving in the Space Between Desire and Fulfillment:Waiting teaches us to trust God’s timing while holding onto our desires. Trusting God’s Goodness and Timing:Waiting is an act of trust in God’s character and promises. V. The Gospel-Centered Heart of Waiting Waiting as Growth, Not Waste:Seasons of waiting grow our faith and prepare us to meet God face-to-face. An Invitation to Know God:Waiting draws us closer to God and deepens our relationship with Him. Reflection:How we wait matters. Will we choose patience and trust in God, or will we give in to anxiety and doubt? Call to Action:Embrace waiting as an opportunity to trust God, surrender control, and grow in faith. Questions: What is something you are currently waiting for? How is it affecting your faith? In what ways can you practice staying present with God during this season? What steps can you take to trust God’s timing and goodness more deeply? How can you view waiting as a time of growth rather than a delay?