Learning to Wait

“Then Jacob went on his journey, and came into the land of the people of the east. And he looked, and behold a well in the field, and, lo, there were three flocks of sheep lying by it; for out of that well they watered the flocks: and a great stone was upon the well’s mouth.” Genesis 29:1-2

We are no doubt all familiar with the story of Jacob, how he had tricked his brother Esau and obtained his birthright, and then deceived his father into giving him the blessing. In fear for his life, he left his home and journeyed to his mother’s homeland. Tired and weary he came to a well and enquired about his mother’s kinfolk. As they were talking, another flock of sheep was gathering, led by a beautiful young girl, named Rachel.

It was the custom to wait until all the flocks were gathered before the stone would be rolled away from the well so the sheep could drink. Jacob thought this strange and proceeded to remove the stone and helped Rachel water her flock. He told her who he was, and she invited him to come to her father’s home.

At the well, Jacob met the one he wanted for his bride. But God had lessons for Jacob to learn. There would be twists and turns before he could claim Rachel as his wife. God had a plan for him, but first he had to learn patience. He also had to learn to submit to others, as Laban changed his wages several times. God was shaping him into the man he wanted him to be. Eventually, he would be ready to return and seek forgiveness from his brother.

Often God gives us a dream and shows us a plan He has for us. But it doesn’t always develop immediately. He allows us to go through tests and trials, in order to bring us to the place where He can use us. Sometimes it is hard to wait, but the end result will be worth it. We learn submission and patience, and when the time is right, He opens the door for His plan to be fulfilled.

Prayer: Lord, help us to submit to you, to learn the lessons you desire us to learn, and to let you shape us into a vessel you can use for your honour and glory.

Devotion by Anne Johnston