30 bible verses about tarrying (Full Commentary)

Pastor David

bible study for you

Today we will talk about Bible verses about tarrying. Tarrying, in a Christian context, means to wait patiently, often in prayer or meditation. It can be challenging to embrace the waiting period when we are expecting results or answers from God. However, the Bible encourages us to understand that waiting upon the Lord is not wasted time; it is a time of growth and preparation. In this journey through scripture, we will explore several verses that guide us in our understanding of tarrying and why it is important in our faith journey. Let us keep an open heart as we dive into God’s Word and see how we can incorporate the practice of tarrying into our lives.

Bible Verses About Tarrying

Understanding Tarrying in Prayer

In our walk with God, prayer is essential. Tarrying in prayer helps us to deepen our relationship with Him and listen attentively. It’s not always about rushing through our requests but resting in God’s presence. Waiting in prayer encourages us to seek His will above our own. Let’s explore how the Bible highlights the importance of tarrying in prayer.

Luke 18:1

“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” – Luke 18:1

Matthew 26:41

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” – Matthew 26:41

1 Thessalonians 5:17

“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

James 5:16

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16

Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6

Tarrying to Strengthen Our Faith

Tarrying isn’t just about waiting; it’s also about being built up in our faith. When we take the time to wait on the Lord, we gain strength and resilience for the challenges ahead. The Bible is rich with verses encouraging us to tarry and reflect, ultimately helping us fortify our spiritual foundation.

Isaiah 40:31

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

Hebrews 11:1

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1

Romans 10:17

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17

Psalm 27:14

“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” – Psalm 27:14

2 Corinthians 5:7

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7

Tarrying During Trials

Life presents us with trials that serve as opportunities for growth. Tarrying during these moments helps us lean on God for guidance and strength. Our trials can help shape our character and lead us to a more profound understanding of our reliance on God. Here are verses that remind us to wait on God during difficult times.

James 1:3-4

“Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:3-4

1 Peter 5:10

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” – 1 Peter 5:10

Romans 5:3-4

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4

Psalm 34:18

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

Isaiah 43:2

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” – Isaiah 43:2

Tarrying for God’s Timing

Understanding God’s perfect timing can be a challenge for us. Our timeline often feels urgent, but tarrying teaches us to trust God and His timing. By waiting patiently, we open ourselves up to greater blessings that may be beyond our immediate comprehension. Let’s explore how the Bible speaks about God’s perfect timing.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Habakkuk 2:3

“For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.” – Habakkuk 2:3

Psalm 37:7

“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” – Psalm 37:7

Galatians 6:9

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Isaiah 64:4

“Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.” – Isaiah 64:4

The Power of Tarrying in Worship

Worship is our response to God’s greatness, and tarrying in worship can bring profound peace to our hearts. Taking the time to wait in worship helps us connect with God on a deeper level. It is an opportunity for us to receive His presence, transforming our spirits and drawing us closer to Him. Here are some enlightening verses on worship and tarrying.

Psalm 100:2

“Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” – Psalm 100:2

Psalm 95:6

“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.” – Psalm 95:6

Exodus 33:14

“The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.'” – Exodus 33:14

John 4:24

“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” – John 4:24

Acts 13:2

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'” – Acts 13:2

Tarrying for Clarity

In our lives, confusion and distractions can often cloud our judgment. Tarrying allows us the space to gain clarity. When we take time to wait upon the Lord, we become better equipped to see our situation through His eyes. Let’s reflect on scriptures that guide us towards clarity through waiting on God.

Proverbs 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Psalm 119:105

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105

Isaiah 30:21

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” – Isaiah 30:21

John 16:13

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” – John 16:13

Psalms 46:10

“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’” – Psalms 46:10

Tarrying to Cultivate Patience

In our fast-paced world, cultivating patience can be a real challenge. Tarrying teaches us to slow down and trust God’s timing. The Bible speaks profoundly about the value of patience and how it can lead to growth in our character and faith. Let’s examine important verses that highlight this virtue inspired by tarrying.

Romans 12:12

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12

Colossians 1:11

“Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.” – Colossians 1:11

Galatians 5:22-23

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23

Ephesians 4:2

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2

Hebrews 12:1

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1

The Blessing of Tarrying

Ultimately, if we commit to tarrying in various aspects of our faith journey, we’ll begin to understand the beautiful blessings that await us. Tarrying allows us to set aside our desires and focus on what God has for us, enriching our lives beyond measure. Join me as we read verses that celebrate the sweet rewards of our patience in tarrying.

Lamentations 3:25

“The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.” – Lamentations 3:25

Psalms 130:5

“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” – Psalms 130:5

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Proverbs 10:28

“The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.” – Proverbs 10:28

Psalm 37:3

“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.” – Psalm 37:3

Final Thoughts

Tarrying is more than merely waiting; it is a meaningful act of trust in God. As we navigate through life, the verses we explored today remind us of the significance of waiting patiently for answers, comfort, clarity, and strength. Tarrying fosters our relationship with God, enabling us to grow in faith and patience. Let us commit to practicing this essential part of our spiritual walk, trusting that, in His timing, we will reap the rewards He has prepared for us.

Whether we are waiting in prayer, through trials, or in worship, embracing moments of tarrying will transform our lives. As we cultivate patience and clarity, we can appreciate the blessings that come from being still and listening to God. Let us strive to incorporate tarrying into our daily routines.

May we find joy in waiting upon the Lord, knowing that our efforts will lead to a deeper relationship with Him and a stronger faith in His promises.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4

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