Wait. To many, this feels like permission to do nothing, a pause in the action. Patiently standing by until something happens. What if that is not what God means when he says to wait on the Lord? What if He means to trust Him, put faith in Him and His timing, but also to prepare?
When you go to a restaurant, a server waits on you. They ask what you want and provide for those desires. They check in frequently to make sure you are still satisfied with your experience. They answer your requests for more of this or better that. They do not tell you what to order. They do not tell you how long to take to eat it or how many times to chew. They don't remind you that they have many other tables and knowing how long you will be there would make their night easier. A good server isn't going to try and tell you how to enjoy your night; they just do what they can to make your plans work out for the best.
What if that is what it means to wait on the Lord? Don't sit idly by and wait for life to happen, but put in the work necessary to make God's plans for your life run smoothly. God wants you to do something: you say, "Absolutely and is there anything else I can do for you?" God asks for something in your life to change: your response is, "Yes I can make that adjustment." Along the way, you are coming back to the Lord's table regularly, just to check in and see if He needs anything or is anything has changed.
Like the greatest customer service professionals I know, at the end of the day you put in the best effort you can and smile, telling God is was “your pleasure.”
Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Psalm 31:24, NLT So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
1 Peter 5:6-7, ESV Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you
1 Peter 5:2 Care For The Flock That God Has Entrusted To You. Watch Over It Willingly, Not Grudgingly – Not For What You Will Get Out Of It, But Because You Are Eager To Serve God.
Romans 12:11 Never Be Lazy, But Work Hard And Serve The Lord Enthusiastically.
Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
James 5:7-8, NIV Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.