Waiting as God’s People - April 19th
Teachers
Lesson Summary
Richard Sutton taught this class about the spiritual practice of waiting as God's people, addressing a topic that resonates deeply during times of isolation and uncertainty. He began by acknowledging how much people dislike waiting—statistically spending 42 to 65 minutes daily waiting on someone or something—and how the modern culture prioritizes speed and efficiency. However, Sutton emphasized that waiting is not new to God's people; it is woven throughout Scripture. He referenced biblical examples: Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac, the Israelites waited over 400 years in captivity before deliverance, Moses waited 40 years before entering the promised land, and Mary waited nine months for Jesus's birth. All believers wait for Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's promises. The heart of the class centered on Isaiah 40:28-31, where God promises that those who wait upon the Lord will gain renewed strength and will mount up with wings like eagles, run without growing weary, and walk without becoming faint. Sutton explained that waiting well means trusting in God's inscrutable understanding and infinite power. He acknowledged that waiting can be painful—whether waiting for test results, job security, healing, or the loss of a loved one—but assured the congregation that God works through all circumstances for His purposes. The teacher emphasized that being a Christian does not exempt one from trials and waiting periods; rather, believers are called to wait with faith and hope. Sutton connected the teaching to the current moment of COVID-19 isolation, noting that the congregation was waiting to reunite, to return to their workplaces, and to see how God would work through the crisis. He reinforced that God is moving and working even during uncertain times, and that His promises to the weary and those who wait remain true and reliable.
Key Scriptures
Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.