When God Says Wait

While he was with them, he commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. Acts 1:4

Waiting is tough. You’re fired up, ready to serve, maybe even beginning to see God’s plan unfold. You want to act now. But sometimes, God says, “Wait.”

That’s what Jesus told His disciples. They had walked with Him, seen miracles, and witnessed His resurrection. They were ready to move on—but Jesus said, “Hold on.” Why? Because enthusiasm without enablement is incomplete. In Acts 1:5, He promised the Holy Spirit’s arrival at Pentecost—a unique event to launch the church. The Greek word for “wait” (prosménō) means to stay with expectation, trusting God’s plan, not your own.

Waiting isn’t wasted time; it’s submission to God’s sovereignty. The disciples didn’t twiddle their thumbs—they prayed and prepared (Acts 1:14). God wasn’t delaying them; He was directing them.

Just because you’re waiting doesn’t mean God isn’t working. God’s timing is perfect. The Spirit, given at salvation, equips you as you obey His Word. Trust Him. His plan is always better than your hustle.