Waiting on the Word

Synopsis

Advent is a season of waiting and anticipation in which the waiting itself is strangely rich and fulfilling. Poetry can help us fathom the depths of Advent's many paradoxes: dark and light, emptiness and fulfilment, ancient and ever new. For every day from Advent Sunday to Christmas Day and beyond, the bestselling poet Malcolm Guite chooses a favourite poem from across the Christian spiritual and English literary traditions and offers incisive seasonal reflections on it. In the spirit of the season, he blends the familiar and the new, ranging from from spiritual classics such as Edmund Spenser, John Donne, George Herbert and Christina Rossetti, to contemporary voices Luci Shaw and Scott Cairns. His own acclaimed sequence of sonnets for the great Advent antiphons are also included.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Call to Wait

Summary:
This chapter introduces the concept of waiting on the Word, which is not about passivity but active obedience and trust in God's timing. The author emphasizes that waiting involves a decision to surrender to God's will, even when it doesn't align with our own desires.

Real Example:
Sarah, a young woman, felt called to leave her job and start a ministry. However, she faced opposition from her family and friends. Instead of rushing into action, she chose to wait on the Lord, seeking His guidance through prayer and seeking advice from trusted mentors.

Chapter 2: The Benefits of Waiting

Summary:
This chapter explores the benefits of waiting on the Lord, including spiritual growth, increased faith, and greater clarity. The author argues that waiting allows us to align our hearts with God's, leading to a deeper understanding of His will.

Real Example:
James, a struggling entrepreneur, was tempted to give up on his dreams after facing several setbacks. However, he chose to wait on the Lord, trusting that God had a plan for his life. During this time of waiting, he discovered new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose.

Chapter 3: The Process of Waiting

Summary:
This chapter outlines the process of waiting on the Word, which involves surrendering our plans, seeking God's guidance, and maintaining patience and faithfulness. The author emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart that is open to God's direction.

Real Example:
Mary, a single mother, faced a difficult decision about whether to move to a new city for a better job. Instead of making a hasty choice, she spent time praying, seeking counsel from her church community, and waiting for God to reveal His will. After several months of waiting, she received a clear sign from the Lord and knew it was time to make the move.

Chapter 4: The Hindrances to Waiting

Summary:
This chapter explores the obstacles that can prevent us from waiting on the Lord, such as fear, doubt, and impatience. The author challenges us to confront these hindrances and rely on God's strength to overcome them.

Real Example:
Tim, a recent college graduate, was anxious about finding a job. Instead of waiting on God to provide the right opportunity, he became consumed by fear and applied for dozens of jobs that didn't align with his passions. Through prayer and reflection, he realized the importance of waiting and surrendered his fears to God.

Chapter 5: The Fruits of Waiting

Summary:
This chapter concludes the book by highlighting the blessings and rewards of waiting on the Lord. The author argues that waiting produces spiritual maturity, peace, and the assurance that God is in control.

Real Example:
After years of waiting on the Lord, Sarah finally received the confirmation she had been praying for. Her ministry was launched, and she experienced an incredible sense of fulfillment and God's favor. Her patience and trust had ultimately led to the realization of her God-given dreams.