Waiting to Take Off – Read Jer. 29:18; Prov. 19:21
As I sat there waiting for my plane to take off, I was reminded of how often we feel like we are perfectly prepared to move forward, yet we seem to be in some holding pattern. Our destination is clear, and by all accounts, we have everything we need to proceed to the next step in our life journey. Indeed, everything may look like we should be on our way, but sometimes one critical element is missing.
In my case, all the travelers were on board and in their assigned seats. The passengers had properly stowed their carry-on luggage in the overhead bins. The cargo crew had secured the checked baggage into the below-deck storage. It looked like we were ready to take flight and travel to our destination post haste. But just as I settled in for takeoff, the captain came over the intercom system to advise us that there had been a last-minute crew change, and we were now awaiting the arrival of his second mate to the cockpit.
As a passenger in this holding pattern, there was no reason to become anxious or overly concerned. Even if I could fly a plane, I was not authorized personnel, and my credentials did not qualify me to lead this flight. While I could notify the person waiting to pick me up at my destination, I could not make the plane get there any sooner. The best that I could do was to use the time to reflect on what I could learn from the situation. In my case, I chose to write this message to encourage you in your delays.
Do all you know to do. Pack appropriately for where you are going, get in the right place, and wait patiently for instructions from the Captain of your life. When He has determined that everyone and everything necessary for safe transport is in place, He will lift you above what you can currently see, give you a birds-eye view of His greatness, and deposit you at the new site for your life’s assignment. Trust that once everything is in place, you will be ready for takeoff.
Copyright © 2021, D’Ann V. Johnson
This devotion is so timely.
After scheduled surgery two weeks ago, I developed a post surgery condition, which put me in a holding position delaying my recovery. My surgeon explained the condition was very normal and I could not have done anything differently to prevent it. All I could do is wait, trust the process and respect the time it will require for a complete recovery.
Thank you Dr. D’ for reminding me that everything is in place as it should be and I can wait patiently, with excitment, knowing God is in control l and all is well!
Thanks so much Dr. D for such an encouraging word. I want to get in the right place in my mind, spirit and heart so that I can hear God and wait. With my Love. Verne
This one brought a chuckle, because I try not be impatient (need prayer). Yeah, this is a wonderful reminder to me to chill, relax – wait it out. Really appreciate this Dr. D.