The Waiting Game

From The Game Of Life by Dacia James Lewis

One of the most adorable challenges that went viral on social media was the Fruit Snack Challenge, also known as the Patience Challenge or Candy Challenge. Basically, this game encourages parents to test their child’s self-restraint.

It’s simple; parents put a bowl of snacks or delicious treats in front of their kids and tell them they can eat it once they get back to the room. The parent leaves and the game begins. What makes this most amusing is the undetected camera recording the kid’s every move. I must say this made for fantastic TV. Some children epically failed and forfeited the rest of their snack while others passed their patience test with ease enjoying their savory reward in exchange.

My absolute favorite of this challenge was a baby girl named Niko. While undergoing the delayed gratification challenge, there was a moment when her countenance fell as if her time to indulge in her favorite snack would never come. The best part came at the end of the video when she randomly looked over her shoulder and a spark of enthusiasm prompted her to start jumping in her seat. We, the viewers, didn’t know why her patient stance turned into pure joy, but we later learned that Niko heard her father before she saw him and knew it was time to feast on the promise.

But for you, O Lord, do I wait; it is you, O Lord my God, who will answer. – Psalm 38:15 ESV

It is clear from this story that patience is indeed a virtue, but what was most satisfying was Niko’s reaction when she realized her father didn’t forget about her. Yes, the wait seemed long, especially for a young child—five minutes feels like five months to them. Nevertheless, when it was all said and done and she heard her father approaching, her expectations grew. It was worth the wait!

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! – Psalm 37:7 ESV

Winning the waiting game of life takes patience as well. But while you are waiting, know, without a shadow of a doubt, that your heavenly Father has not abandoned you. You are not forgotten.

For the dead cannot praise you; they cannot raise their voices in praise. Those who go down to the grave can no longer hope in your faithfulness. – Isaiah 38:18 NLT

Just listen for the sound of your Father and soon you will look over your shoulder and shout with glee in anticipation. Not to mention, you might even get to relish some yummy fruit snacks for passing the test.

In your wait . . . release the weight of impatience. God has not forgotten you. Trust His timing and wait with expectation.

I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! – Psalm 27:13-14 ESV

Prayer

Abba Father, forgive me for the times I have been impatient, for You are not slow in keeping your promises. Help me not to jump ahead of Your plans out of frustration. Increase my ability to tolerate the wait with the understanding that You are orchestrating the perfect plan for my life. I am not forgotten. I am not forsaken. I will patiently wait (in expectation) for Your goodness. Amen.