Waiting

Dec. 7-13: Matthew 3:1-12

Waiting in the biblical sense is far from passive. Waiting is an active, intentional posture that calls for repentance, transformation, and alignment with God’s Story in the world. Rather than simply holding the right beliefs, true faithfulness is demonstrated through actions that bear fruit, embodying both orthodoxy (right belief) and orthopraxy (right practice). This active waiting includes prophetic work: naming injustices and advocating for those on the margins, just as John the Baptist and Jesus did. Waiting is pointing toward God’s Story, a just and compassionate Kingdom on earth.

There are 5 days of devotions each week to recognize that you might have other commitments, or maybe you are like me and miss now and again. Download a printable version of Week 2

Day 1: Waiting Is Not Passive

Scripture: Matthew 3:1–3

Reflection: Waiting often feels passive, but in God’s Kingdom, waiting is active. John the Baptist calls us to prepare the way, through repentance and readiness. Waiting well means responding to God’s present work as we hope for Jesus’ return.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to wait with purpose, not complacency.

Action: Identify one area of life where you’ve been passive. Ask God how you can engage actively.

Journaling Prompt:

• Where in my life do I confuse waiting with doing nothing?

• What does active waiting look like for me today?

Day 2: Repentance as Transformation

Scripture: Matthew 3:7-9

Reflection: Repentance (Metanoia) means changing our mind and direction. Like neuroplasticity rewires the brain, repentance rewires the soul. It’s not just feeling sorry, it’s opening ourselves to transformation.

Prayer: Lord, renew my mind and reshape my heart.

Action: Reflect on one mindset that needs to change. Ask God what it should be instead.

Journaling Prompt:

• What thought patterns keep me from aligning with God?

• How can I invite God to transform those patterns?

Day 3: Alignment Through Action

Scripture: Matthew 3:8-10

Reflection: Faithfulness is not proven by right answers but by right actions. Orthodoxy (right belief) must lead to orthopraxy (right practice). Orthopraxy does not bring salvation; it is the fruit of a personal relationship with Jesus. Waiting well means living in alignment with God’s movement; producing fruit that reflects His Kingdom.

Prayer: Lord, help my actions reflect Your heart.

Action: Choose one tangible way to live out your faith today (serve, encourage, give).

Journaling Prompt:

• Where do my actions align, or misalign, with God’s way?

• What fruit do I want my life to bear this season?

Day 4: Prophetic Waiting

Scripture: Matthew 3:1, 4–6

Reflection: John’s waiting was prophetic; naming injustice and calling for change. Active waiting means courageously speaking truth and advocating for the vulnerable. This is Kingdom work, even when it feels risky.

Prayer: Lord, give me boldness to stand for what is right.

Action: Identify one injustice in your community. Pray for wisdom and courage to respond.

Journaling Prompt:

• What injustices weigh on my heart?

• How might God be calling me to act or speak?

Day 5: Hopeful Anticipation

Scripture: Matthew 3:11–12

Reflection: John waited with hope for the One who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. Our waiting is fueled by the anticipation of the Holy Spirit’s transforming power. Hope keeps us moving forward, even when change feels slow.

Prayer: Lord, fill me with hope as I wait for Your Kingdom to come.

Action: Share one hope-filled truth with someone today.

Journaling Prompt:

• What am I hoping the Holy Spirit will do in me or through me?

• How can I live today as if that hope is already unfolding?