What do you think?
Rate this book
When God Says Wait Lib/E: Navigating Life's Detours and Delays Without Losing Your Faith, Your Friends, or Your Mind
A job, a true love, a baby, a cure. . .
We’re all waiting for something from God.
And the place between His answers can feel like a wasteland where dreams—and faith—go to die.
When we’re waiting, we wonder, “Why?”, “Why me?”, and “How long?”
But the truth? . . .
When God says, “Wait,” He doesn’t tell us for how long.
When God says, “Wait,” we face one of life’s greatest tests.
When God says, “Wait,” we have decisions to make.
When God says, “Wait,” we can control only two things: how we wait, and who we become along the way.
Author Elizabeth Laing Thompson invites you to walk alongside people of the Bible who had to wait on God. . .imperfect heroes like David, Miriam, Naomi, Sarah, Joseph, and others. Their stories will provide a roadmap for your own story, helping you navigate the painful, lonely territory of waiting, coming out on the other side with your faith, relationships, and sense of humor intact. They might even help you learn to enjoy the ride.
This book is about the journey of waiting, the space between answers, and the people we become while we live there.
We’re all waiting for something from God.
And the place between His answers can feel like a wasteland where dreams—and faith—go to die.
When we’re waiting, we wonder, “Why?”, “Why me?”, and “How long?”
But the truth? . . .
When God says, “Wait,” He doesn’t tell us for how long.
When God says, “Wait,” we face one of life’s greatest tests.
When God says, “Wait,” we have decisions to make.
When God says, “Wait,” we can control only two things: how we wait, and who we become along the way.
Author Elizabeth Laing Thompson invites you to walk alongside people of the Bible who had to wait on God. . .imperfect heroes like David, Miriam, Naomi, Sarah, Joseph, and others. Their stories will provide a roadmap for your own story, helping you navigate the painful, lonely territory of waiting, coming out on the other side with your faith, relationships, and sense of humor intact. They might even help you learn to enjoy the ride.
This book is about the journey of waiting, the space between answers, and the people we become while we live there.
Audio CD
Published May 15, 2018
674 people are currently reading
1430 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
May 18, 2017
It's not often that I read a non-fiction book, simply because I find that I enjoy a lot of fiction books. However, this one came across as one that I could really use and it was. This devotional book was written from a female perspective for females mainly. I can see where it would benefit male readers as well.
Utilizing popular Bible stories, Elizabeth Laing Thompson uses Miriam, Sarah, Hannah, Naomi, David, Jacob, Ruth, Mary, Gideon, Joseph, Martha, and Abraham to explain how sometimes in our lives, God does say, "Wait". Each of these Biblical people faced uncertain dilemmas in life and had to wait for the right time before receiving answers they were searching for.
Some of my favorite quotes from this book include:
"When battles change us, even wound us, we can use our scars for good: They are reminders of God's power in our weakness."
"...build a life where he is in that moment."
"The ability to comfort others who are going through a similar trial. The ability to sympathize--and strongly."
"Never forget this: Our suffering becomes our story. God's nos are a much a part of our testimony as His yeses."
There is also great advice given in this book. Something I often struggle with is remaining positive, especially when it feels like the world is crumbling down around you. The author suggests to write down three things that happened in a positive way or three ways you saw God at work. Do this daily before going to bed each night. Focus on these things and keep your mind from wandering to the negative, especially before bedtime, but also to help you wake up refreshed and more positive for the coming day.
I appreciate how the author used these situations we read of in the Bible to remind me that, first of all, I'm not alone. Waiting can be so hard, no matter what it is you may be waiting on. Secondly, this book helped me to refocus my thoughts on Biblical matters and I found a deeper connection with these people by re-reading their stories and struggles. Third, I found this book to be very encouraging. Not only will it have you spending more time in the Word, but also reflecting on different situations you and your loved ones may be facing. Be encouraged to know that whatever it is you are going through, you are not alone in the wait. It can seem like it at times but remaining faithful and true to the Lord will reap bountiful rewards in the end.
I do hope that you will find encouragement in this post! I would recommend this to anyone hurting from the wait of your answer. I encourage you to have your Bible handy and read these accounts from the Bible, then read the devotional and commentary on each situation and apply it to your life. Be prayerful while reading this as well....I found myself having an even more active prayer life during the reading of this book and even since then. Finally, reach out to someone to pray for you, encourage you, whatever you need...you're not in this alone!!
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and the author for a complimentary review copy made available to me on NetGalley.com. What you have read are my honest thoughts and opinions on this book.
Utilizing popular Bible stories, Elizabeth Laing Thompson uses Miriam, Sarah, Hannah, Naomi, David, Jacob, Ruth, Mary, Gideon, Joseph, Martha, and Abraham to explain how sometimes in our lives, God does say, "Wait". Each of these Biblical people faced uncertain dilemmas in life and had to wait for the right time before receiving answers they were searching for.
Some of my favorite quotes from this book include:
"When battles change us, even wound us, we can use our scars for good: They are reminders of God's power in our weakness."
"...build a life where he is in that moment."
"The ability to comfort others who are going through a similar trial. The ability to sympathize--and strongly."
"Never forget this: Our suffering becomes our story. God's nos are a much a part of our testimony as His yeses."
There is also great advice given in this book. Something I often struggle with is remaining positive, especially when it feels like the world is crumbling down around you. The author suggests to write down three things that happened in a positive way or three ways you saw God at work. Do this daily before going to bed each night. Focus on these things and keep your mind from wandering to the negative, especially before bedtime, but also to help you wake up refreshed and more positive for the coming day.
I appreciate how the author used these situations we read of in the Bible to remind me that, first of all, I'm not alone. Waiting can be so hard, no matter what it is you may be waiting on. Secondly, this book helped me to refocus my thoughts on Biblical matters and I found a deeper connection with these people by re-reading their stories and struggles. Third, I found this book to be very encouraging. Not only will it have you spending more time in the Word, but also reflecting on different situations you and your loved ones may be facing. Be encouraged to know that whatever it is you are going through, you are not alone in the wait. It can seem like it at times but remaining faithful and true to the Lord will reap bountiful rewards in the end.
I do hope that you will find encouragement in this post! I would recommend this to anyone hurting from the wait of your answer. I encourage you to have your Bible handy and read these accounts from the Bible, then read the devotional and commentary on each situation and apply it to your life. Be prayerful while reading this as well....I found myself having an even more active prayer life during the reading of this book and even since then. Finally, reach out to someone to pray for you, encourage you, whatever you need...you're not in this alone!!
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and the author for a complimentary review copy made available to me on NetGalley.com. What you have read are my honest thoughts and opinions on this book.
August 27, 2020
Took me a long time to read this book not because it was boring or didn’t proceed it’s title, but simply because I wanted to savor every moment and truly allow the subject at hand to really sink in. A really good read and very encouraging!
February 29, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! If you’re in a waiting season I highly recommend this book.
July 21, 2021
Excellent book on waiting with hope!
February 28, 2017
I really needed this book. I am NOT a patient person!
Elizabeth Laing Thompson weaves beautiful descriptions of stories shared in the bible, and combines them with real-life experiences as well as suggested lessons or practices we might apply in our own lives. Her sense of humor and humble examples from her own periods of waiting made this an enjoyable and easily relatable guide. Each chapter closes with additional suggested readings, journal prompts, and prayers specific to each type of waiting we may experience.
This book offers true comfort and wisdom making it a wonderful addition for both individual and group study!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Elizabeth Laing Thompson weaves beautiful descriptions of stories shared in the bible, and combines them with real-life experiences as well as suggested lessons or practices we might apply in our own lives. Her sense of humor and humble examples from her own periods of waiting made this an enjoyable and easily relatable guide. Each chapter closes with additional suggested readings, journal prompts, and prayers specific to each type of waiting we may experience.
This book offers true comfort and wisdom making it a wonderful addition for both individual and group study!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
February 7, 2017
This book by Elizabeth Laing Thompson, despite being pretty much written for a female audience, was of particular interest to me. I’m in the middle of a waiting process myself — waiting to learn if I’m ever going to land a reasonable job — and wanted to learn more about navigating through this trying and difficult period of my life. I’m glad I read this as I felt that I walked away from When God Says ‘Wait’ with some valuable insights. More on that later, though. The first thing that I probably should talk about is the fairly unconventional narrative structure — one that mirrors another book I recently read.
When God Says ‘Wait’ has 12 chapters that all begin with a retelling of a Biblical narrative. That is to say that Bible stories (from both the Old and New Testaments) are retold through a modern lens with stuff added that nobody could know about. I was talking to a fellow Christian friend about this stylistic choice recently, and it seems as though the antecedent for this is a 1997 book called The Red Tent, which takes a very minor female character in the Bible that is only referenced in three verses and is blown widescreen into a full novel. That book is supposedly beautifully written.
Instead of a novel-length narrative here, we get a few short stories. Again, as with Waiting for Wonder, I felt that the effect was a little bit of padding to make this book quite longer than it needed to be. While I’m starting to come around to this approach at making Bible stories seem fresh, I have to admit that some of these stories aren’t well reframed. To me, they were filled with too many modern references and slang. However, that said, I can see where this might be of some value to a new believer who doesn’t want to go wading through the Bible to untangle these narratives (though Thompson does provide references so you can go and do just that).
Read more here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
When God Says ‘Wait’ has 12 chapters that all begin with a retelling of a Biblical narrative. That is to say that Bible stories (from both the Old and New Testaments) are retold through a modern lens with stuff added that nobody could know about. I was talking to a fellow Christian friend about this stylistic choice recently, and it seems as though the antecedent for this is a 1997 book called The Red Tent, which takes a very minor female character in the Bible that is only referenced in three verses and is blown widescreen into a full novel. That book is supposedly beautifully written.
Instead of a novel-length narrative here, we get a few short stories. Again, as with Waiting for Wonder, I felt that the effect was a little bit of padding to make this book quite longer than it needed to be. While I’m starting to come around to this approach at making Bible stories seem fresh, I have to admit that some of these stories aren’t well reframed. To me, they were filled with too many modern references and slang. However, that said, I can see where this might be of some value to a new believer who doesn’t want to go wading through the Bible to untangle these narratives (though Thompson does provide references so you can go and do just that).
Read more here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...
January 27, 2023
Great book for those of us waiting. She was waiting in the midst of her infertility but she didn’t go on and on about the pain of waiting for a child, or bask in her glow when she finally had one. (God knows we didn’t need another book like that…) She told other relevant stories of waiting that connected well. Well done.
July 15, 2017
Really good, thought provoking read.
March 22, 2022
I told myself, "I'm in a period of waiting, but I don't want to be. When will all this waiting be over?" Literal days later, the book "When God Says Wait" by Elizabeth Laing Thompson appeared while I was scrolling on social media. I immediately ordered a copy, and I'm so glad I did!
"When God Says Wait" is written for women, no matter what they're waiting for. A job, true love, a baby, a friend, a home--we're all waiting for something. For me, personally, the waiting weighs so heavy on my shoulders that I have often found myself ignoring my many blessings and answered prayers. I'm utterly consumed by the waiting. Just like the book explains, when God says "wait," we don't know for how long. And waiting is a form of suffering. BUT Thompson beautifully articulates that though there is much out of our control while we wait, we can control HOW we wait and who we become along the way.
Each chapter begins with a Biblical narrative centered around waiting. In the book, we see such Biblical figures as David, Miriam, Sarah, and Joseph, Naomi, and Mary and Martha, who had to wait on God in their own time. We also here Thompson's personal struggles with waiting in her own life. The chapters end with recommended scripture reading for further study, recommended journal prompts, and a prayer prompt.
Reading Thompson's own struggles and how though some waiting is over, she still endures waiting in other avenues of life, was eye-opening for me. Everyone is waiting for something. I can't keep telling myself I'll be happy WHEN...I've got to learn to be happy even in the waiting. I don't want my life to pass me by, while I'm waiting. I don't want to grow bitter while I'm waiting. I want to recognize all the answered prayers (both yes and no) that have shaped my life to date. I want to glorify God for all that He has done, and I want to hope that my waiting will be rewarded, even if it is not how I imagine it.
The story of Lazurus as appeared in Thompson's book, struck me in a way it never had before. Mary and Martha wanted a healing, but instead, they got a resurrection. Think about that: they wanted a healing, but instead, they got a resurrection! How magnificent is that? It is true, I don't know if my waiting will turn into nos or more not-right-nows or yeses or yes but even better. But how comforting is it to know that God hears our prayers, every prayer, and that through our waiting, we better grow into the people God needs us to be!
Whatever you are waiting for right now, don't wait to read this book. This book has uplifted my spirit, and I will never stop recommending it.
"When God Says Wait" is written for women, no matter what they're waiting for. A job, true love, a baby, a friend, a home--we're all waiting for something. For me, personally, the waiting weighs so heavy on my shoulders that I have often found myself ignoring my many blessings and answered prayers. I'm utterly consumed by the waiting. Just like the book explains, when God says "wait," we don't know for how long. And waiting is a form of suffering. BUT Thompson beautifully articulates that though there is much out of our control while we wait, we can control HOW we wait and who we become along the way.
Each chapter begins with a Biblical narrative centered around waiting. In the book, we see such Biblical figures as David, Miriam, Sarah, and Joseph, Naomi, and Mary and Martha, who had to wait on God in their own time. We also here Thompson's personal struggles with waiting in her own life. The chapters end with recommended scripture reading for further study, recommended journal prompts, and a prayer prompt.
Reading Thompson's own struggles and how though some waiting is over, she still endures waiting in other avenues of life, was eye-opening for me. Everyone is waiting for something. I can't keep telling myself I'll be happy WHEN...I've got to learn to be happy even in the waiting. I don't want my life to pass me by, while I'm waiting. I don't want to grow bitter while I'm waiting. I want to recognize all the answered prayers (both yes and no) that have shaped my life to date. I want to glorify God for all that He has done, and I want to hope that my waiting will be rewarded, even if it is not how I imagine it.
The story of Lazurus as appeared in Thompson's book, struck me in a way it never had before. Mary and Martha wanted a healing, but instead, they got a resurrection. Think about that: they wanted a healing, but instead, they got a resurrection! How magnificent is that? It is true, I don't know if my waiting will turn into nos or more not-right-nows or yeses or yes but even better. But how comforting is it to know that God hears our prayers, every prayer, and that through our waiting, we better grow into the people God needs us to be!
Whatever you are waiting for right now, don't wait to read this book. This book has uplifted my spirit, and I will never stop recommending it.
April 17, 2017
Patience is not a quality that I naturally possess; it is a struggle for me at every turn. So when an opportunity came to read and review this title, and as I am experiencing a season of waiting at this very moment, it was a given that I should read it and add to my arsenal for times where I must wait.
Reading this book is like talking to a friend across the table with a good cup of coffee cradled in my hands. All those thoughts I have been too scared to voice? She addresses them. Without judgment. Not only that, but she allows me the freedom to ask my questions and reminds me that God is big enough to handle them.
There are so many places where I could relate to the material and felt comforted knowing I am not alone in my struggles. Thompson's frequent reminders that "God sees. God knows. God cares." were a balm to my soul and directly refuted the lies that the enemy would have me believe. And the simple statement that "everyone waits" for something at some point in time, that it is not a punishment from God, helped me to look at my own waiting through a different lens.
Packed with additional devotional material including Bible passages to focus on, journaling prompts, and a prayer focus, this book is an excellent tool for those of us who struggle with waiting. There is a lot of excellent, Biblical information here, plenty of experiences readers can relate to, and ways to refocus our thoughts on truth when the wait seems endless. This is a book that will remain on my keeper shelf, and I plan to reread it often when I need some encouragement in the wait. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review, and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
Reading this book is like talking to a friend across the table with a good cup of coffee cradled in my hands. All those thoughts I have been too scared to voice? She addresses them. Without judgment. Not only that, but she allows me the freedom to ask my questions and reminds me that God is big enough to handle them.
There are so many places where I could relate to the material and felt comforted knowing I am not alone in my struggles. Thompson's frequent reminders that "God sees. God knows. God cares." were a balm to my soul and directly refuted the lies that the enemy would have me believe. And the simple statement that "everyone waits" for something at some point in time, that it is not a punishment from God, helped me to look at my own waiting through a different lens.
Packed with additional devotional material including Bible passages to focus on, journaling prompts, and a prayer focus, this book is an excellent tool for those of us who struggle with waiting. There is a lot of excellent, Biblical information here, plenty of experiences readers can relate to, and ways to refocus our thoughts on truth when the wait seems endless. This is a book that will remain on my keeper shelf, and I plan to reread it often when I need some encouragement in the wait. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review, and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
June 2, 2018
This book has a lot of emotional honesty--as in, I was going to read through it in a couple afternoons, but it made me cry so much I had to take it a lot slower instead.
On the downside, there are a lot of smaller statements I disagree with. For one example, she talks about God's timing as though it's in competition with Him listening to our prayers. Fairly, she puts an emphasis on the fact that He listens to our prayers, and our prayers can affect the world, but I personally believe that God took all those prayers into account in the first place when He set His perfect timing. No tension between the two. There are quite a few other similar points in the book, where I was really hesitant to fully agree with a point she was making.
That said, I still really appreciated the main thrust of the book, which is a lot of practical help in how to always lean in closer to God during the rough parts of life, instead of pulling away.
On the downside, there are a lot of smaller statements I disagree with. For one example, she talks about God's timing as though it's in competition with Him listening to our prayers. Fairly, she puts an emphasis on the fact that He listens to our prayers, and our prayers can affect the world, but I personally believe that God took all those prayers into account in the first place when He set His perfect timing. No tension between the two. There are quite a few other similar points in the book, where I was really hesitant to fully agree with a point she was making.
That said, I still really appreciated the main thrust of the book, which is a lot of practical help in how to always lean in closer to God during the rough parts of life, instead of pulling away.
February 24, 2017
We never like waiting and sometimes we have to wait for answers. In this book, the author reminds us that God answers yes, no, and sometimes "wait". This book is full of valuable, common sense information that can be used daily. The author refers to stories from the Bible and relates those stories to today's world. I enjoyed this book. This book would be a great study for a group or an individual. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
October 9, 2021
If you’re a woman who’s currently in a waiting season(s), I HIGHLY recommend this book to you. I’ve read so many blog posts about waiting, follow Instagram accounts dedicated to waiting, but nothing compares to this book right here.
Similar to how Bishop T.D. Jakes wrote When Women Pray, Elizabeth Laing Thompson begins each chapter, telling a Bible story with a contemporary/modern feel.
She gives great encouragement and insight on how to wait. Like I always do, I took a highlighter to this book, so I’ll definitely be coming back to re-read when I’m feeling discouraged while waiting….absolutely loved this book. ❤️
Similar to how Bishop T.D. Jakes wrote When Women Pray, Elizabeth Laing Thompson begins each chapter, telling a Bible story with a contemporary/modern feel.
She gives great encouragement and insight on how to wait. Like I always do, I took a highlighter to this book, so I’ll definitely be coming back to re-read when I’m feeling discouraged while waiting….absolutely loved this book. ❤️
June 29, 2020
This is one of those authors that God brought to me at the perfect time--as I sit in a waiting season (this book) and am beginning to hear the call that the wait is over (another of her books--When God Says Go). I enjoyed this book immensely, including the brief stories based on Bible characters' lives. I giggled, smirked, and felt deep heartache at various moments the author shared from her life, all relatable even though our stories are vastly different. She wrote with the tenderness inherent in those who have walked a difficult journey and come out the other side with great hope to share. I look forward to reading more from Mrs. Thompson.
September 26, 2017
Great advice.
October 28, 2024
Gave me a lot to think about, and I want to use my waiting time to serve and project God
March 18, 2017
4.5 stars
When God Says "Wait" was a very good read. I loved how the chapters opened -- by taking a Bible story and expanding it to how the author sees the story. It was quite interesting and gave new perspective to certain stories and I appreciated how every "retelling (as I called them) had the Bible passage for that story listed at the beginning, so you could look it up and compare the two.
I loved how easy the chapters were to read. It was also encouraging for those who are in a season of "wait" -- whether in love, life, or something else.
All in all, an intriguing read and I recommend it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in hopes I would review it. I was not required to do so and have shared my honest opinion.*
When God Says "Wait" was a very good read. I loved how the chapters opened -- by taking a Bible story and expanding it to how the author sees the story. It was quite interesting and gave new perspective to certain stories and I appreciated how every "retelling (as I called them) had the Bible passage for that story listed at the beginning, so you could look it up and compare the two.
I loved how easy the chapters were to read. It was also encouraging for those who are in a season of "wait" -- whether in love, life, or something else.
All in all, an intriguing read and I recommend it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in hopes I would review it. I was not required to do so and have shared my honest opinion.*
March 3, 2017
In our society, there is the idea it is better to move forward. Hurry! Make any decision just make one. Not many people talk about waiting and how to do it. To talk about waiting means a belief in the power of prayer. It means believing that you are not in control of your life, but God is in control of your life. It means praising God and learning more about His attributes.
In "When God Says Wait" by Elizabeth Laing Thompson, there are chapters with journal prompts to help a person come to a better understanding on how to endure while waiting for God to give you what is best for your life. The journal entries are simple. I felt no anxiety about trying two or more of them. I had the chance to write and think about the pitfalls you might fall into while God is equipping you with patience. One is depression.
The chapters are about Bible heroes and heroines. There is Mariam, Joseph, Mary and Naomi, etc. The author also shares her life in the chapters. While these people were waiting and enduring painful situation, they learned to go on with their lives. This brings me to one of the points I really liked. Always make use of your journey. Perhaps, taking up a new hobby or hobbies might help. I laughed, for some reason, when Elizabeth Laing Thompson began to play the Oboe again. Her experience caused me to think about learning a new craft like sewing or jewelry making. After all, a watched pot never boils.
Also, God is making us wait not to torture us but to teach us wonderful spiritual lessons along the way. I truly enjoyed reading about the author's life. She comes across as a very real person and a fine example as you wait for God to work His way in your life.
In "When God Says Wait" by Elizabeth Laing Thompson, there are chapters with journal prompts to help a person come to a better understanding on how to endure while waiting for God to give you what is best for your life. The journal entries are simple. I felt no anxiety about trying two or more of them. I had the chance to write and think about the pitfalls you might fall into while God is equipping you with patience. One is depression.
The chapters are about Bible heroes and heroines. There is Mariam, Joseph, Mary and Naomi, etc. The author also shares her life in the chapters. While these people were waiting and enduring painful situation, they learned to go on with their lives. This brings me to one of the points I really liked. Always make use of your journey. Perhaps, taking up a new hobby or hobbies might help. I laughed, for some reason, when Elizabeth Laing Thompson began to play the Oboe again. Her experience caused me to think about learning a new craft like sewing or jewelry making. After all, a watched pot never boils.
Also, God is making us wait not to torture us but to teach us wonderful spiritual lessons along the way. I truly enjoyed reading about the author's life. She comes across as a very real person and a fine example as you wait for God to work His way in your life.
February 28, 2017
This is a priceless book for each of us who are waiting on the Lord! Whether one wants to be healed, find a job or new career, meet their spouse, or have a baby after a long period of infertility, there are suggestions from the author showing what helped her when she was waiting…for Mr. Letterman Jacket, for a baby, even having a party. Would you like to trade what might be a painful time of waiting into using it to God’s glory instead?
The author writes in a conversational tone about her own times of waiting, some of which were years in length, and shares examples of people in the Bible. Twelve stories from the Bible are used, real people waiting for real events, from Miriam waiting for her brother Moses to release the Israelites from Egypt, to Abraham, waiting for the Lord to keep him from sacrificing Isaac and for many other of the things the Lord promised. This reader appreciated seeing their waiting times through different eyes.
Each chapter begins with the author telling the story of these beloved people, many of whom are in the ‘faith hall of fame’ in Hebrews 11. She continues with examples from her own life and what she has learned through the biblical examples. At the end of each chapter, the reader finds ‘Waiting Room Reading’: For Further Study – the location(s) in the Bible from which she took each person’s story; Journal Prompt – questions or suggestions for the reader to think about, journal about as a result of reading that chapter; and Prayer Prompt – scripture readings, many from Psalms, to begin our prayer(s) following that chapter.
A treasure chest of helps is in each chapter discussion, such as Pitfalls on Waiting Journeys (of which there are places throughout the book that address each of the pitfalls), and Survival Skills. Each of these skills sound like no-brainers at first – but when one’s emotions are caught up in waiting, these skills may not the first things to come to mind – or may even be activities that we give up on during the wait. One of the things the author shows from Bible stories that help bring peace to my heart is that “God sees. God hears. God cares.” Scripture verses are gems for any day, especially when the lies of the enemy threaten to take root in our hearts. We also read about the results of the Bible man or woman, or the author, has experienced through using these suggestions.
A suggestion for future readers: For me, like many others, brain fog is frequent symptom that blocks clear thinking especially when under stress, including the stress of waiting. I plan to go back through with a couple large index cards to make notes of suggestions, most importantly scripture verses the author shares that speak to the reader. Putting a list one’s a smartphone may be useful, also.
It is possible to have joy while we wait, even if we don’t ever receive what we are waiting for on this side of heaven. We can use this time well, and have beautiful, blessed spiritual results. I highly recommend this book! It is a ‘must read’ for anyone who wants to have peace – even hope and joy – in the journey of waiting. The author writes, “Let’s take back this time. Let’s use it for God instead of letting it go to waste. Let’s give what we have as we wait for what we want. Let’s not waste the wait.” (pg 178)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
The author writes in a conversational tone about her own times of waiting, some of which were years in length, and shares examples of people in the Bible. Twelve stories from the Bible are used, real people waiting for real events, from Miriam waiting for her brother Moses to release the Israelites from Egypt, to Abraham, waiting for the Lord to keep him from sacrificing Isaac and for many other of the things the Lord promised. This reader appreciated seeing their waiting times through different eyes.
Each chapter begins with the author telling the story of these beloved people, many of whom are in the ‘faith hall of fame’ in Hebrews 11. She continues with examples from her own life and what she has learned through the biblical examples. At the end of each chapter, the reader finds ‘Waiting Room Reading’: For Further Study – the location(s) in the Bible from which she took each person’s story; Journal Prompt – questions or suggestions for the reader to think about, journal about as a result of reading that chapter; and Prayer Prompt – scripture readings, many from Psalms, to begin our prayer(s) following that chapter.
A treasure chest of helps is in each chapter discussion, such as Pitfalls on Waiting Journeys (of which there are places throughout the book that address each of the pitfalls), and Survival Skills. Each of these skills sound like no-brainers at first – but when one’s emotions are caught up in waiting, these skills may not the first things to come to mind – or may even be activities that we give up on during the wait. One of the things the author shows from Bible stories that help bring peace to my heart is that “God sees. God hears. God cares.” Scripture verses are gems for any day, especially when the lies of the enemy threaten to take root in our hearts. We also read about the results of the Bible man or woman, or the author, has experienced through using these suggestions.
A suggestion for future readers: For me, like many others, brain fog is frequent symptom that blocks clear thinking especially when under stress, including the stress of waiting. I plan to go back through with a couple large index cards to make notes of suggestions, most importantly scripture verses the author shares that speak to the reader. Putting a list one’s a smartphone may be useful, also.
It is possible to have joy while we wait, even if we don’t ever receive what we are waiting for on this side of heaven. We can use this time well, and have beautiful, blessed spiritual results. I highly recommend this book! It is a ‘must read’ for anyone who wants to have peace – even hope and joy – in the journey of waiting. The author writes, “Let’s take back this time. Let’s use it for God instead of letting it go to waste. Let’s give what we have as we wait for what we want. Let’s not waste the wait.” (pg 178)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
July 3, 2017
This is one of the BEST books I have read about how to deal with waiting in a God-honoring way. She is very real, and doesn't offer quick, easy, trite sayings, but recognizes how difficult the wait is. In each chapter, we step into the lives of a Biblical person experiencing a significant wait, and how that affects our lives and wait. I was truly encouraged by this book, and I want to re-read it to do the questions for reflection at the end. Thank you!!
May 27, 2017
I received a copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was not my favorite bible study book. The writing style had a sarcastic tone that I found annoying. The beginning of the book dragged and didn’t have a lot of substance. As the book went on I found some of the words comforting, not enlightening or new perspectives on the bible stories.
I think I am a tough critic because I have already read many books on waiting for answered prayer.
This book was Average.
Who would like this book…..
Someone struggling with waiting on answered prayer might find comfort in this book.
If you haven’t already read several books on waiting for answered prayer this book organizes bible verses referencing waiting and patience all in one place.
This was not my favorite bible study book. The writing style had a sarcastic tone that I found annoying. The beginning of the book dragged and didn’t have a lot of substance. As the book went on I found some of the words comforting, not enlightening or new perspectives on the bible stories.
I think I am a tough critic because I have already read many books on waiting for answered prayer.
This book was Average.
Who would like this book…..
Someone struggling with waiting on answered prayer might find comfort in this book.
If you haven’t already read several books on waiting for answered prayer this book organizes bible verses referencing waiting and patience all in one place.
March 31, 2017
Waiting. Something that is extremely difficult for most of us to do. Especially when we've gotten used to being a microwave society and having most things at our fingertips. But sometimes, God makes us wait. And there's nothing we can do to change his mind. This book gives the reader practical insight into the art of waiting, using several biblical examples. Not only biblical examples, but personal ones as well. A phenomenal read that will help you in your spiritual walk
I received a copy from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
I received a copy from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
June 20, 2017
Yikes I could not get into this book. The (very long) paraphrased bible stories at the beginning of each chapter really threw me off, I would have rather just read the actual scripture. There was not enough practical life application for me to get more than about halfway through before I put this one down.
February 17, 2021
Encouraging, practical, Biblical. Balm for my soul in my personal season of waiting.
August 31, 2024
Loved this book!
September 18, 2023
I loved this book. Such an encouraging read for anyone going through a waiting period in their life. 🤍
July 17, 2017
I found this book on Instagram while scrolling for some encouragement one night. I saw the word, wait, and knew I had to read this. I've been in a lot of areas in my life: writing, friendships, healing/purpose after a hysterectomy. Elizabeth spoke deeply into my pain and restlessness during the wait. This book helped pinpoint the lie that waiting can often feel like punishment from God when it's not. I loved Elizabeth's writing of bible stories in the beginning of every chapter and her own struggles with waiting and the disappointment. I loved her openness to share own struggles with writing, the journal/prayer prompts at the end of the chapters. It helped me to slow down and process my own story and turn it to God. I know I'm going to be returning to this again, especially with the lies you start to believe while waiting.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"God sees. God hears. God cares. God feels our pain when the wait stretches long. He gets it."
"What will you do if God says yes? Will you think, Finally! I’m so glad that’s over! and move on with your life? As you enjoy the gift, will you remember the Giver?"
"When you wait, if you dare to share your struggles with friends—even when they are embarrassing, even when you’d rather keep them to yourself—you open yourself up to receive care and kindness."
"I see that our faith in God is important, but—heretical as it sounds—not most important. Most important is the faith God has in us—even when we are still doubting."
"When we delight in God, our life goes better overall. We get more of the things that make us happy. Not all of the things all of the time, but many of the things. Maybe even most of the things most of the time."
This book has given me so much hope. Hope that God uses our wait for good even if we can't see right away. It draws us closer to him. I only wish this book was a little longer because it felt like sitting down with a friend who continuously wants to speak life into you. It's so good.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"God sees. God hears. God cares. God feels our pain when the wait stretches long. He gets it."
"What will you do if God says yes? Will you think, Finally! I’m so glad that’s over! and move on with your life? As you enjoy the gift, will you remember the Giver?"
"When you wait, if you dare to share your struggles with friends—even when they are embarrassing, even when you’d rather keep them to yourself—you open yourself up to receive care and kindness."
"I see that our faith in God is important, but—heretical as it sounds—not most important. Most important is the faith God has in us—even when we are still doubting."
"When we delight in God, our life goes better overall. We get more of the things that make us happy. Not all of the things all of the time, but many of the things. Maybe even most of the things most of the time."
This book has given me so much hope. Hope that God uses our wait for good even if we can't see right away. It draws us closer to him. I only wish this book was a little longer because it felt like sitting down with a friend who continuously wants to speak life into you. It's so good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2017
When God Says Wait by Elizabeth Lang Thompson; Published by Shiloh Run Press
When I visit in the hospital I often read Psalm 5:1-3, “Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning. O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” (NIV)
I find these verses helpful, especially for those who do not have words to express the hurt and the pain they are experiencing. Eventually I get to verse three, a verse that has a part A and a part B.
Part A is often the easy part. “In the morning I lay my requests before you….” When we are faced with a problem, sickness, sorrow, disappointment, it seems easy to pray about it, even if the prayer sounds more like complaining then asking.
Part B is the hard part “wait in expectation”. In this fast food, fast internet, fast car era many of us have not learned how to wait or learned the benefits of waiting. That is right where this book by Elizabeth Lang Thompson fits in. Not only does she tell us that we may need to wait she tells us we are not alone.
The author retells stories of people in the Bible who had to wait. Actually she reminds us of 12 of the people we have heard about. There are many more stories she could have told.
She gives us what could have been the backstory for those who waited and lets us hear what could have been their thoughts while they were waiting. She is probably quite close to the actual thoughts because they were humans just like us and, oh how we hate to wait and we like to tell people how we feel while we are waiting.
I appreciate the author’s honesty as she tells about her own problem with waiting. On page 24 she confesses’ “I wish I could say I have handled my many waiting times with grace and elegance and faith but I haven’t.”
The people she writes about Sarah, David, Abraham and others remind us that many, if not all, of the people around us are waiting for something and not all wait for the same thing. With Sarah, the author waited for a baby. Others wait for God to show up in other ways.
David was anointed as King when he was just a kid but he had to wait many years before he sat on the throne. How much better he was as a King after that long wait.
I often remind people that it takes many years for God to get all the pieces together and sometimes he has to work in different cultures, different languages and different countries before all the pieces fit. In the meantime we have to wait expectantly.
When God Says Wait is a good reminder that we are in good company while we wait. I would recommend this book for a small group study especially for a Ladies’ Bible study but it would be a good read for anyone. Each chapter ends with a section called Waiting Room Reading and this helps make the book very practical not typical waiting room reading.
Along the way the author prepares us for the pitfalls of waiting not so we can react when we fall in but so we can avoid the pit altogether. But she does remind us that God does provide a way up and a way out. This book is about redeeming the time we are waiting not an excuse to moan and just put up with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
When I visit in the hospital I often read Psalm 5:1-3, “Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning. O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” (NIV)
I find these verses helpful, especially for those who do not have words to express the hurt and the pain they are experiencing. Eventually I get to verse three, a verse that has a part A and a part B.
Part A is often the easy part. “In the morning I lay my requests before you….” When we are faced with a problem, sickness, sorrow, disappointment, it seems easy to pray about it, even if the prayer sounds more like complaining then asking.
Part B is the hard part “wait in expectation”. In this fast food, fast internet, fast car era many of us have not learned how to wait or learned the benefits of waiting. That is right where this book by Elizabeth Lang Thompson fits in. Not only does she tell us that we may need to wait she tells us we are not alone.
The author retells stories of people in the Bible who had to wait. Actually she reminds us of 12 of the people we have heard about. There are many more stories she could have told.
She gives us what could have been the backstory for those who waited and lets us hear what could have been their thoughts while they were waiting. She is probably quite close to the actual thoughts because they were humans just like us and, oh how we hate to wait and we like to tell people how we feel while we are waiting.
I appreciate the author’s honesty as she tells about her own problem with waiting. On page 24 she confesses’ “I wish I could say I have handled my many waiting times with grace and elegance and faith but I haven’t.”
The people she writes about Sarah, David, Abraham and others remind us that many, if not all, of the people around us are waiting for something and not all wait for the same thing. With Sarah, the author waited for a baby. Others wait for God to show up in other ways.
David was anointed as King when he was just a kid but he had to wait many years before he sat on the throne. How much better he was as a King after that long wait.
I often remind people that it takes many years for God to get all the pieces together and sometimes he has to work in different cultures, different languages and different countries before all the pieces fit. In the meantime we have to wait expectantly.
When God Says Wait is a good reminder that we are in good company while we wait. I would recommend this book for a small group study especially for a Ladies’ Bible study but it would be a good read for anyone. Each chapter ends with a section called Waiting Room Reading and this helps make the book very practical not typical waiting room reading.
Along the way the author prepares us for the pitfalls of waiting not so we can react when we fall in but so we can avoid the pit altogether. But she does remind us that God does provide a way up and a way out. This book is about redeeming the time we are waiting not an excuse to moan and just put up with it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
March 19, 2017
When God Says 'Wait' is a book that you will read once, because the cover or the title catches your eye, but is also a book you will hold on to and read again and again based on what you are going through in life. Elizabeth Laing Thompson has done so many things right with this book, it's hard to know where to start. Most importantly, this book is grounded in Scripture. Check that, this book is FILLED with Scripture. A friend and mentor of mine tells me all the time (literally ALL the time) that I need to match my "say-so" up to God's "say-so." Since I believe this is true, why would I take or even want ANY advice that isn't grounded in Scripture? What Thompson does in this terrific book is take an aspect of waiting that we might be discouraged by or need help in, and brings us to the Bible for help. For example, in her chapter on Survival Skills for Spiritual Waiting, she takes us back to the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel. She provides the story, from Scripture, explains the story in plain English, and then shows us what we can take away from that story that will provide us with survival skills. Just in this chapter alone she provides 8 survival skills, all backed by Scripture (numerous Scriptures, not just one verse). She also ends each chapter with something she calls Waiting Room Reading. In Waiting Room Reading she first provides a topic for further study - that is, additional Scripture we can read to understand more about Hannah's story, in this example. Then Thompson provides Journal Prompts - questions for reflection to help guide us in journaling about the topic. Lastly, she provides a Prayer Prompt, which is Scripture we can pray through. Sure, there are personal anecdotes in the book, and modernized applications to things like social media, ice cream, football, and New Jersey(!) but understand that you aren't taking advice from Elizabeth Laing Thompson in this book. You are taking advice from the Living Word of God. You are learning to match your say-so with His say-so. And trust me, you can't go wrong when you do that!
October 10, 2017
Are you in a season of waiting? I’m waiting for answered prayer, so this book grabbed my attention. I’m so glad I opened its pages, as it is a treasure trove of honest encouragement. Elizabeth Laing Thompson writes with warmth, humor, creativity, and wisdom. You feel as if you’re having a conversation with a friend.
Each chapter begins with a creative retelling of a person in the Bible who endured a season of waiting. Then, Elizabeth shares personal anecdotes and stories from her friends’ seasons of waiting. She offers fresh insight into Bible passages which will help you grow and thrive, no matter how long your season of waiting lasts.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes from When God Says Wait:
Waiting is not a punishment from God; it is a part of life. Everyone waits for things, even the most righteous of people.
Worship proves especially powerful in times when God feels distant and our prayer life feels blocked.
Don’t just sit around waiting for the life you want; fill the days you have. Try new things. Take new risks. Remain social. Get out of the house. Keep your life fun and interesting.
Heartache and hurt drove David closer to God, not farther away; disappointment and delay made him better, not bitter.
Praise reminds us of His power; gratitude reminds us of His goodness. Together praise and gratitude protect our hearts and restore our hope.
This book will inspire new hope and greater faith, no matter what your season of waiting looks like.
Each chapter begins with a creative retelling of a person in the Bible who endured a season of waiting. Then, Elizabeth shares personal anecdotes and stories from her friends’ seasons of waiting. She offers fresh insight into Bible passages which will help you grow and thrive, no matter how long your season of waiting lasts.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes from When God Says Wait:
Waiting is not a punishment from God; it is a part of life. Everyone waits for things, even the most righteous of people.
Worship proves especially powerful in times when God feels distant and our prayer life feels blocked.
Don’t just sit around waiting for the life you want; fill the days you have. Try new things. Take new risks. Remain social. Get out of the house. Keep your life fun and interesting.
Heartache and hurt drove David closer to God, not farther away; disappointment and delay made him better, not bitter.
Praise reminds us of His power; gratitude reminds us of His goodness. Together praise and gratitude protect our hearts and restore our hope.
This book will inspire new hope and greater faith, no matter what your season of waiting looks like.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews