Genesis 28:11: “He tarried there all night.”
Psalm 62:5: “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.”
Isaiah 40:31: “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Our Bethel should be a place where we spend quality time with God, seeking His face and calling on His name. The true Bethel experience is not rushed like a fast food restaurant. So many churches have a program that is so tight. The pastor opens in prayer, we sing a few worship songs, we take up the offering (we must never forget the offering), we make the announcements, the pastor gives his 20 minute message, closes in prayer, and everyone hurries out to get on with the things that “really matter.”
Our 21st century church has no understanding about tarrying or waiting upon God to manifest His presence. Our impatience concerning God “showing up” and downloading to us is as shallow as an empty tin can. If God doesn’t show up on our tight schedule, it’s just too bad. We give Him at least a few minutes once a week. Isn’t that enough? No wonder the church is so impotent, lifeless, and without any great impact upon the affairs of our fellow mankind
When Jacob returned to his own kindred, he wrestled with an angel all night until the break of day (Genesis 32:24). Jesus, the great Shepherd of our souls regularly spent lengthy times to tarry and wait upon God. Luke 6:12 says: “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.” Read also Matthew 14:23.
Bethel is to be a place of waiting or tarrying on God. Our 21st century is a time of great opportunities and challenges. How sad it is that we are too busy to take the time to wait.
Be encouraged.
Colin Campbell