I recently prayed about a situation, and the Lord’s answer was “wait.” As I navigated my feelings about this—though not always gracefully—it felt a bit… discouraging. I wondered why things were moving so slowly. We had good intentions, so why couldn’t everything “fall into place”? While reading the book of Hosea, one verse stood out to me more than ever before…

I’m jumping in with the assumption that you recognize the prophet Hosea was given a unique assignment. Ultimately, he perfectly illustrated Christ’s love. As I studied this book, I was amazed by Hosea’s pursuit of Gomer. His provision and protection of her, even while she was unaware of these acts, truly blew me away.

Beloved, may I suggest that we are no different? When it comes to the things we desire, the opportunities we seek, and the circumstances we face, we have no idea (just as Gomer) what our good God is doing behind the scenes.

In the account of Hosea, he pulls back so she realizes by whom she is being sustained. (Oh, that alone will preach!) However, his next act is where the Lord spoke to me so clearly. It’s found in Hosea 2:14. “Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her.” (Emphasis added.) Did you catch it? He led her into the wilderness to speak to her! I also deeply appreciate that the Lord used a verse where a woman was being mentioned. It helped me to read those “hers” and easily plug myself into the equation.

Today, I’m confident that just as our work is never in vain, neither is our wait in the wilderness. It is merely God’s continual pursuit of us. May He work, speak, and grow us in that place.

Praying that no matter where this finds you, you are encouraged to stay steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding in the work!