Book Review: Waiting isn't Wasted

September 3, 2024

Waiting isn’t Wasted by Mark Vroegop, Reviewed by Stephanie Sellman

Do you know someone that is really good at waiting? My guess would be not particularly. Not once has it crossed my mind that waiting in line at the DMV, nervously keeping busy while waiting for THAT text message, or logging in and out of my bank to see if my paycheck has hit is easy. As I’ve gotten older, it would appear that my patience in and with waiting is dwindling by the day. The world of technology hasn’t made this inevitable practice easier either. I remember when I thought waiting for dial-up was quick!  Maybe you’re in a season where you’re unsure of the purpose behind rejection, heartbreak, or what just feels like a desert. Don’t lose hope, friend! 

Before this quick read, I considered myself a “decent waiter”. Wowza-that couldn’t be farther from the truth! Vroegop gives his readers hope in their waiting, explains why it can be difficult, and provides practical, biblical advice for the seasons that seem like they’re dragging on past their expiration date. In his book, he outlines six ways that we wait: honestly, because waiting is hard; frequently, because waiting is common; thoughtfully, because waiting is biblical; patiently, because waiting is slow; intentionally, because waiting is commanded, and collectively, because waiting is relational.

Here are a few takeaways that I found helpful:

• We waste our waiting because we don’t recon with how hard it is and why it’s the case
  

• Waiting is what you do when you can’t do what you want to do (Oof!)
  

• Waiting requires what I know to be true about God when I don’t know what’s true about my life
  

• Consider this - what if waiting on the Lord was an act of obedience? (Double oof)
  

• Waiting on God is essential to my spiritual growth and isn’t just essential for Christians, its essential to the entire church