The anticipation of God's action is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the faith and hope of believers in God's promises and interventions. This anticipation is rooted in the understanding of God's character as faithful, just, and sovereign, and it is expressed through various forms of worship, prayer, and prophecy.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, anticipation of God's action is often linked to His covenant promises. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, lived in expectation of God's fulfillment of His promises. For instance, Abraham anticipated the birth of Isaac as the child of promise (Genesis 17:19). The Israelites, during their bondage in Egypt, anticipated deliverance as foretold to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14). This anticipation was realized through the Exodus, a pivotal event demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

The Psalms frequently express anticipation of God's intervention. Psalm 27:13-14 states, "Still I am certain to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!" This passage reflects a confident expectation of God's goodness and timing.

The prophets also played a significant role in shaping the anticipation of God's action. Isaiah, for example, prophesied the coming of the Messiah, a future hope that sustained Israel through times of trial. Isaiah 9:6 declares, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the anticipation of God's action is centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Gospels record the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the realization of long-held expectations. Simeon, a devout man in Jerusalem, exemplifies this anticipation. Luke 2:25-26 describes him as "righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ."

The early church lived in anticipation of Christ's return, a hope that continues to be a cornerstone of Christian eschatology. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, encourages believers to live in readiness for the Lord's coming. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 , he writes, "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord."

Practical Implications

The anticipation of God's action is not merely a passive waiting but involves active faith and obedience. Believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, as they await God's intervention in their lives and in the world. This anticipation fuels perseverance, as seen in James 5:7-8 : "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains. You too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near."

Throughout Scripture, the anticipation of God's action serves as a source of hope and encouragement, reminding believers of God's ultimate plan and purpose. It calls for a life of faith, characterized by trust in God's promises and readiness for His divine intervention.