The Hidden Benefits of Waiting

Waiting can be really annoying because it often feels like wasted time, and in our fast-paced world, every second counts. People hate waiting because it disrupts their flow and forces them to pause when they’d rather be doing something productive or enjoyable. Whether it's standing in line at the grocery store, sitting in traffic, or waiting for a text back, the anticipation can be frustrating and anxiety-inducing. It’s like being stuck in limbo, where you’re neither here nor there, and that lack of control over the situation can be maddening. Plus, with technology making everything so instant, our patience has dwindled, making any delay feel like an eternity.

The Hidden Benefits of Waiting

When the storm is too fierce, wise fishermen don’t sit idly by. They mend their nets, sharpen their tools, and prepare for the moment the waters calm. They know that waiting is not wasted time—it’s preparation.

Many Christian professionals struggle with seasons of stillness. Whether it’s a career setback, a delayed opportunity, or a time of uncertainty, the temptation is to either despair or force progress. But Scripture and the saints teach that these moments are not empty—they are invitations to prepare.

Waiting as a Spiritual Discipline

The world tells us that success comes through constant movement, but God often calls His people to seasons of stillness before great action.

• Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”

• Isaiah 40:31 – “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

• Lamentations 3:25-26 – “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”

Waiting is never passive in the life of faith. It’s the time when God refines us, strengthens us, and deepens our trust in Him.

The Saints on Holy Preparation

The saints understood that times of stillness are not times of inaction but of deep inner work. St. Isaac the Syrian said, “If you cannot labor with your body, make efforts to cultivate your heart.”

Likewise, St. Paisios of Mount Athos encouraged believers not to resent delays, saying, “God’s timing is always perfect. If something is delayed, He knows why. Prepare yourself, and in the right moment, He will act.”

Just as a fisherman repairs his nets before setting sail again, so must we use quiet seasons to sharpen our faith, deepen our skills, and prepare for what’s ahead.

Scientific Proof That Stillness Produces Growth

Even in nature, growth often happens unseen. Studies in neuroscience show that rest and reflection improve problem-solving, memory, and creativity. The brain consolidates learning during pauses, making future work more effective.

When we step back, we return stronger. Whether in business, ministry, or personal growth, taking time to “mend our nets” leads to greater success when the right moment comes.

How to Prepare in Seasons of Waiting

1. Strengthen your faith – Dedicate more time to prayer and Scripture. Use stillness as a time to seek God’s wisdom.

2. Sharpen your skills – Read, learn, and grow in the areas where you’re called to serve.

3. Deepen your relationships – Invest in your family, community, and colleagues. Often, God uses seasons of waiting to restore what busyness neglects.

4. Trust God’s timing – Resist the urge to force progress. Trust that the delay is part of the process.

Conclusion

When the waters are calm again, those who spent their waiting time wisely will be ready. If you find yourself in a season of stillness, don’t waste it. Mend your nets. Strengthen your soul. Because when God calls you to set sail again, you’ll be prepared.