So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. – Galatians 6:9 NLT

When in business, you will continually be waiting on something—waiting for product, waiting for customers, waiting for payments, and so on. Patience will be a virtue! Waiting is not for the weak of heart but for the learned man.

Over the years in our ministry, we have taught youth that they are not waiting for a husband or wife; you are always in preparation for marriage. If you are constantly waiting for the right spouse, you won’t find them because they will pass you by. We tell them if they spend the time stewing and waiting—that wasted time of not working towards the desire God has put on their heart of being married—they have completely missed it. The time of waiting that God has given them is to prepare to be the husband or wife that God is trying to mold them into for the spouse He has for them. You must become the person your future spouse is looking for.

This analogy also applies to business. You will continually be waiting, but if you take that time of waiting and use it to prepare or learn, success will come your way.

Preparing approaches waiting with a new set of eyes (impatience gets you nowhere).

If you are waiting for your products to come in, then spend some time researching new products or services, or new suppliers. Create a features and benefits list for that product which will help you sell more.

If you’re waiting for customers to buy your products—spend time on your marketing plan.

If you’re waiting for your customers to pay, pick up the phone and make a collection call. Create a collection system for your accounts payable so you can follow it every month.

Waiting to hire a new staff member? Create a team manual, review the tasks, and set policies and procedures. Discover better ways to delegate.

Remember, when you are waiting for something, doing nothing gets you nowhere—you can always take time to create a plan to make your business better! Learn something new; wisdom will always benefit your business. Or maybe you just need a bit of time for solitude and rest? Take it in a time of waiting.

Remember, waiting provides the following lessons. Learn them well; they will pay dividends.

• The gift of patience
• Trust in God’s plan
• Creates expectation
• Allows you to examine your heart
• Produces increase of praise

Waiting is a gift from God—use it wisely!