We've all been there: unable to rush our circumstances, feeling helpless or powerless or frustrated, wanting desperately to be in the game, get the job, fix the relationship, heal our bodies or our hearts, but having to wait.

It hit me in a new way when my sweet number 88 was sidelined with an injury for what will probably be his final season with this football league. He wanted so badly to be out on the field catching balls, helping his team, but all he could do was watch and wait for time to heal. It's the same way I have felt on the sidelines of a variety of life circumstances when I've so badly wanted to charge on and create change, but I am forced to just wait.

As I watched my son, I realized there is power and purpose in the wait. Standing on the sidelines gave my football player a different perspective on the game. It allowed him to be there for his teammates in a different way, cheering behind them instead of working beside them. It showed him that getting mad or frustrated won't change it and that it's always better to choose grace over circumstance. It taught him a new level of patience and appreciation for being in the game. It gave him time to heal.

It can do all that and more for you and me, too. But we have to be willing to look for the good in the sometimes excruciating wait. When we do, it can be a great teacher that reveals purpose and lessons in the sidelines of life.