Grateful in Waiting

Reflection: Grateful in Waiting

There’s a story of a woman who planted a rose bush. Every morning, she watered it faithfully, even though for months she saw only thorns and leaves. Her neighbours teased her, saying, “Why do you keep tending to something that hasn’t bloomed?” She smiled and replied, “Because I believe the flowers will come.” One morning, the first rose burst open — vibrant, fragrant, and worth every day of waiting.

Waiting is one of the hardest parts of faith. It tests our patience, challenges our trust, and often tempts us to complain rather than give thanks. Yet, David in Psalm 27 shows us what it means to wait with gratitude. He doesn’t just wait; he waits confidently, believing he will see God’s goodness even before it appears.

Gratitude in waiting transforms our hearts. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, we begin to thank God for what is — His presence, His promises, and His faithfulness that never fails. The waiting season isn’t punishment; it’s preparation. It’s the soil where deep roots of faith and endurance grow.

When we wait with gratitude, we shift from anxiety to assurance, from complaining to contentment. Gratitude keeps our hearts soft and hopeful until God’s perfect timing unfolds.