Brave Like Jael: Finding Strength in Waiting

Have you ever felt powerless or overwhelmed while waiting for God's timing in your life? Perhaps you’ve found yourself alone in a tent, so to speak, looking for direction and purpose. The story of Jael in the Book of Judges offers profound insights for single Christian women navigating this waiting period.

The Boldness of Jael

In Judges 4:21, we read about Jael, the wife of Heber, who took brave action when she faced a difficult situation.

"Then Jael Heber's wife took a nail of the tent, and took a hammer in her hand, and went softly unto him, and smote the nail into his temples, and fastened it into the ground: for he was fast asleep and weary. So he died."

This verse highlights a moment of decisive courage. Jael didn’t simply wait for her circumstances to change or for someone else to take charge. Instead, she took the initiative to do what was necessary, despite the daunting nature of her task.

Lessons in Action and Waiting

As single women, it can be easy to feel like we must wait passively for our lives to unfold—whether that means marriage, career advancement, or personal growth. However, Jael's story reminds us that God often calls us to a courageous, active role, even in our waiting seasons.

• Embrace Your Current Circumstances: Jael wasn't in a palace; she was in a tent. Be encouraged that God can use you right where you are.

• Take Bold Steps: Just as Jael took action, don't hesitate to pursue opportunities, cultivate your skills, or engage in community while waiting.

• Be Mindfully Active: Jael approached her situation with calm and purpose. Seek to cultivate peace and purposeful waiting in your life.

Trusting God's Plan

Waiting doesn’t mean inaction. Just like Jael prepared beforehand and was ready for the moment, we too must prepare ourselves spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. Trust that God has a plan for your life, even if it doesn't look like the ideal picture right now.

Ask yourself, what nails and hammers do you have in your hands today? What can you do to create change in your life? Each small step can lead to significant progress.

Reflection

Consider Jael's courage and resourcefulness. In what ways can you be a woman of action while you wait? How can you engage with your community and grow in your faith and character? Each day of waiting is a day of preparation.

Let Jael inspire you to be bold and courageous. Remember that waiting can be an active, productive part of your journey towards becoming the woman God has called you to be.

Your current season is temporary, but your growth during this time can have a lasting impact. Trust in God's timing and keep moving forward in faith!