Waiting Patiently for the Lord

Scripture Reading: James 5:7-9 (NIV)

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

George Müller's Breakfast Miracle

In the 19th century, George Müller, a Christian evangelist in Bristol, England, founded orphanages to care for thousands of children, relying solely on prayer for provision—never asking people directly for money. One famous account illustrates profound patience in waiting on God.

One morning, the children were seated at the table for breakfast, but there was no food or milk in the house. Müller prayed a simple prayer of thanks for the meal God would provide. As they waited patiently, a knock came at the door. A baker, awakened in the night by God urging him to bake bread for the orphans, delivered fresh loaves. Moments later, a milkman’s cart broke down outside; to prevent the milk from spoiling, he offered it all to the orphanage. The children ate heartily that day.

Müller’s life was filled with such stories. He waited on God daily, trusting His timing like a farmer waits for rain, without grumbling or taking matters into his own hands. Through patient faith, God provided for over 10,000 orphans in Müller's care.

Quote

"The farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and late rains. You also be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near." — James 5:7-8 (ESV)

Action Steps

1. Practice Daily Trust: Each morning, thank God in advance for His provision in your current needs, just as Müller did.

2. Avoid Grumbling: When delays or frustrations arise (with people or circumstances), pause and choose encouragement over complaint.

3. Stand Firm in Hope: Remind yourself daily that the Lord's return is near—write James 5:8 on a note and place it where you'll see it often.

4. Cultivate Patience in Small Things: Next time you're in a long line or traffic, use it as a moment to pray and reflect on God's perfect timing.

Personal Reflection Questions

1. In what area of your life are you currently "waiting for rain"—a need, answer, or breakthrough—and how has impatience affected your faith?

2. Like the farmer or George Müller, how can you strengthen your heart while standing firm during this season?

3. Have you ever grumbled against others during a time of waiting? What might change if you replaced complaints with prayer?

4. How does knowing "the Judge is standing at the door" motivate you to be patient and kind toward others?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your perfect timing and faithful provision. Teach us to be patient like the farmer who trusts in the early and late rains, and like Your servant George Müller who waited on You without doubt. Strengthen our hearts as we await Your coming. Help us stand firm, free from grumbling, and full of hope. Forgive our impatience and fill us with Your peace that surpasses understanding. May our lives glorify You as we trust in Your nearness. In Jesus' name, Amen.