What is the significance of waiting on God's promises?

The account of Abraham and Sarah illustrates the danger of not waiting on God's promises. Sarah's impatience led her to suggest that Abraham bear a child with Hagar, which resulted in sin and strife. This story, recounted in Genesis 16 and 21, is used to show how relying on human understanding can lead to disastrous consequences, while waiting on God's timing showcases faith. In the context of the gospel, this waiting reflects our trust that God's promises will be fulfilled perfectly in His time, as seen ultimately in Christ.