One of my closest family friends—now in his mid-80s—loves to tell the story of how he taught his children patience. Over the summer, he would drive his family to the pool, unpack their belongings and set a 30-minute timer. For all 30 minutes, he would ask his children to sit quietly as they watched their neighbors swim, dive and play in the water. Only after the timer expired would he would allow them to swim freely.

Every time my friend shares this story, the process sounds more and more painful. I imagine I would have made a break for it at least once. But here’s the thing: waiting can be painful. Whether we’re longing for a challenging situation to pass or anticipating an important event to happen, waiting often leaves us feeling agitated and uneasy.

Are you waiting today?

Maybe you’re anxious to find your future spouse. For years, you’ve wondered when you’ll finally meet the right person—the one who will make you laugh, keep you company and stick with you no matter what. You haven’t found this person yet, and you’re beginning to worry that you never will.

Or maybe you’re waiting for a loved one to overcome an illness. After months of making hospital visits and freezing meals, you’re starting to burn out. You want your loved one to heal. But you desperately need more rest.

When you feel trapped in a period of waiting, you can turn to God’s Word for reminders of his continual presence. These five Bible verses will get you started:

Micah 7:7 (GNTD)

But I will watch for the Lord; I will wait confidently for God, who will save me. My God will hear me.

1 Corinthians 15:58 (GNTD)

So then, my dear friends, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless.

James 1:12 (GNTD)

Happy are those who remain faithful under trials, because when they succeed in passing such a test, they will receive as their reward the life which God has promised to those who love him.

Romans 12:12 (GNTD)

Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.

Psalm 130:5-6 (GNTD)

I wait eagerly for the Lord's help, and in his word I trust. I wait for the Lord more eagerly than sentries wait for the dawn; than sentries wait for the dawn.