Something that has weighed on my mind this week is the passing of Mandisa. We have all clapped along to "Overcomer" and "Unfinished". It would seem that her death was sudden and untimely. She was only 47 years old, and seemed to have many years and songs ahead of her. She has been a source of encouragement for those who struggle with mental health issues.

We never know when our loved ones will be called home to be with the Lord. It is important to keep up the relationship now, not allowing room for regrets. I too want to encourage each of you reading this. You are not alone! If you are having anxious thoughts or depressive feelings, please reach out. If someone in your life has pulled away or is giving an indication that they are struggling, please get in touch with them. Recently, I have heard the song "Because He Lives" quite a few times. Although 60 years old, the lyrics contain absolute truth - "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know, He holds the future. Life is worth the living just because He lives!"

One of the greatest mysteries to the blessings and promises of God is waiting. The Bible provides numerous examples of people who waited on the Lord. Waiting is part of God’s plan and purpose and often God uses this time of waiting for a greater purpose that lies ahead. Are you waiting for a breakthrough, a shift, a change in your life, or an answered prayer? Well God is calling you to wait.

Waiting on God is a time of patience, faith, and trust in His perfect timing. This waiting could encompass various aspects, such as waiting for answers to prayers, waiting for guidance or direction, or waiting for the fulfillment of promises. Waiting can also be a testing and refining experience, as individuals navigate through seasons of uncertainty, doubt, and perseverance. It requires steadfast faith and an unwavering belief in God's faithfulness.

There are so many purposes in God's waiting room.

1. Transformed: In God's waiting room we become renewed and strengthened. Isaiah 40:31 says those that wait for the Lord will gain new strength and renew their power. Waiting on God means we are being strengthened, prepared, and equipped for the plans God has for our lives.

2. Sit At His Feet: Waiting on God is an opportunity to get closer to him. God wants an intimate personal time with you. It's a time to sit at His feet to seek Him and His will for our lives.

3. Testing: God’s waiting room is a testing of your faith. As you are waiting on God, how is your attitude? Are you questioning His abilities, are you upset, have you lost hope? Or are you patient and faithful as you wait on God to fulfill His promises?

4. Believe: Luke 1:37 says "For with God nothing [is or ever] shall be impossible." Waiting on God means that you believe that there is nothing too hard nor difficult for God and He will go above and beyond and exceed your expectations.