Technology gives us instant access to many wonderful things. But it also trains us to expect this throughout life. And the soul, for example, doesn’t move at the speed of technology, rather it moves more like the work of the soil. It’s frustrating then whenever we don’t receive immediate gratification in our life and relationships. And waiting can feel like we’re wasting time, but waiting is the work.
To be sure, we love the joy of accomplishing things. And technology provides a great means for us to work more efficiently. But it’s a mistake to assume God will work at the speed of technology in the maturing of our souls and relationships. God seems to move at the speed of nature, which at times can be a flash of lighting, but, in terms of growth, is often like planting seeds and waiting on the harvest. Seeds will sprout at just the right time, and our impatience will not change this reality.
It’s helpful to bring this agricultural mindset into the rest of our life. Perhaps we’re discerning God’s calling for our life, seeking freedom from some habitual sin, or longing for a breakthrough in our marriage. Whatever it looks like, we might not receive immediate answers to our questions. And it might feel like we’re stuck. But, as we live by faith, our waiting is not wasted.
In fact, it’s through the waiting that our souls are formed. God expands our hearts and desires to receive more of him. We’re waiting for the feast to be prepared rather than killing our appetite with the immediate gratification of snack food. As such, waiting is the work to become the men God has called us to be.
In the end, enjoy the many benefits of technology without assuming you can bypass the patience needed in the forming of your soul and relationships. Growth takes time. And waiting is the work needed to be ready for what God has for us when we arrive.
