Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White taught that waiting for an answer to prayer is a purposeful experience where "the delay is for our special benefit" (CH 380.3). She explained that during these times, we must not "weary of waiting and become unstable" (2T 131.1) but should instead maintain a "firm, undeviating trust in God" (COL 145.2). The experience of waiting serves as a vital test of our spiritual condition. Ellen White noted that through delay, "we have a chance to see whether our faith is true and sincere or changeable like the waves of the sea" (CH 380.3). This period is often intended to "try our faith or test the genuineness of our desire" (COL 145.2). By continuing to pray with intensity, we gain an "experience of highest value, that will never be forgotten" (YI March 23, 1893, par. 6). While waiting, we are encouraged to be persistent, much like the "importunate widow" (2T 131.1) or the man asking his friend for bread at midnight (19MR 227.3). Ellen White urged that if the object of our prayer is important, we should "press our petitions with a determination that will not be denied" (COL 145.2). She promised that "if you ask, He will give you liberally and upbraid not" (2T 131.1), though the answer may come with "sudden velocity" or be "delayed for days and weeks" (3SP 272.2). Waiting is not a state of idle expectation; it requires active cooperation with God. Ellen White clarified that "this waiting does not mean that because we ask the Lord to heal there is nothing for us to do" (CH 380.3). Instead, we are to "make the very best use of the means which the Lord in His goodness has provided" (CH 380.3) and ensure we are putting aside all envy and maliceto stay in connection with the "divine channel" (3SP 272.2). Ultimately, the process of waiting refines our character and increases our appreciation for God's blessings. Ellen White observed that "if it costs you something to obtain it you will prize it the more when obtained" (2T 131.1). By remaining steadfast and resting "firmly upon the promise" (2T 131.1), we find that our "faith strengthens through continual exercise" (CH 380.3). --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about the "importunate widow" and persistence in prayer? • How does faith grow through exercise during times of waiting? • What "means" should we use while waiting for God to answer prayers for healing?