Steve Young was one of the greatest quarterbacks to play in the NFL. But for years he had to wait and watch from the bench as Joe Montana – who many think was the greatest quarterback ever to play the game - set passing record after passing record for the San Francisco 49ers.
Mother quarterback, Frank Reich, had been a backup his entire career. All he had done was wait and watch as starter Jim Kelly led the Buffalo Bills to victory. Then it came time for Frank to step up in a 1993 wildcard game in Buffalo. He led his team to the greatest comeback victory in NFL playoff history, overcoming a 32-point deficit to defeat the Houston Oilers 41-38.
There is a time to wait and watch, and there is a time for action.
The Bible contains many examples of men who had to wait and watch until God called them to action. Elisha waited for years while he watched Elijah perform miracles. And John the Baptist waited and watched as Jesus' ministry grew and his own following dwindled.
Before the apostles could experience the birth of the church, they had to wait. One of the greatest days in the history of the world was about to take place. The Holy Spirit was on the verge of taking residence in the lives of believers and empowering them to do great works for Christ. But first they had to wait!
Sometimes God will call you to wait and watch as others do great things for him. When that happens, you need to be content to serve behind the scenes. But you also need to keep yourself ready, for you never know when God will call you to step up!
Lord, give me as much enthusiasm for waiting and watching others do your will as I have for doing it myself.