I’ve always been fascinated by what happens before a plane leaves the ground. You hear the engines roar, the seatbelt sign lights up, and the aircraft begins to taxi – but no plane takes off without clearance from the control tower. No matter how ready the passengers are or how eager the pilot may be, without that word from the tower “Cleared for takeoff” – the aircraft stays put.
This got me thinking: how many times have we, in life, tried to “take off” without waiting for God’s signal? We want to launch the business, move to a new city, start the relationship, or make that big decision – but did we check with the control tower? Did we wait for clearance from God?
The Danger of Moving Too Soon
Let’s go back to one of the darkest days in aviation history: The Tenerife Airport disaster of 1977. Two Boeing 747s, Pan Am and KLM -collided on the runway in heavy fog, killing 583 people. The KLM aircraft had not yet received takeoff clearance from air traffic control, but the pilot believed he had, and attempted to take off. It was a terrible misjudgment. One that could have been avoided if the pilot had waited for a clear, confirmed instruction.
I’m not trying to be dramatic, but there’s a lesson here. Moving ahead of God, no matter how ready we feel, can lead to confusion, delays, and even disaster. Just like in aviation, impatience and assumption in life can have serious consequences.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)
Taxi, Don’t Takeoff
Sometimes, God allows us to taxi out – we’re moving, we’re prepping, we’re building. But we’re not cleared for takeoff just yet. And that’s okay. The waiting season isn’t wasted. That quiet taxi time is where character is shaped, humility is formed, and faith is tested.
Jesus Himself waited 30 years before stepping into public ministry. David was anointed as king long before he wore the crown. Even Joseph had to wait years between his dream and the palace.
Waiting does not mean denial, it means preparation.
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” – Psalm 27:14
God’s Timing Is Perfect – Ours Isn’t
God sees the full radar. He knows what’s ahead. Sometimes we think we’re ready, but He sees storms brewing or incoming traffic we cannot see. Trusting His timing isn’t always easy, especially when it feels like everyone else is already soaring. But His delay is not His denial, it’s His protection.
Think of all the decisions you regret,chances are many were made without prayer, without pause, and without God’s green light.
Let this verse sink in:
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
What “Cleared for Takeoff” Looks Like in Real Life
You might be wondering, “How do I know if I’m cleared to take off?”
It may look like:
- Peace that doesn’t come from logic
- Open doors you couldn’t have forced
- Confirmation through Scripture and godly counsel
- A green light from your inner witness—the Holy Spirit
- A clear shift in your circumstances that aligns with God’s Word
Sometimes, God will close every other door until only one remains. Other times, He waits for your heart to surrender before He opens any door.
But here’s what I’ve learnt: if you have to force it, rush it, or manipulate it, you’re probably not cleared for takeoff.
The Power of Stillness
The cockpit may be noisy, the passengers restless, and the runway ready – but the pilot doesn’t move until the tower says go.
In your spiritual walk, learn to wait on the Lord. Listen. Stay grounded. Be still.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
You don’t have to figure it all out. You don’t have to hustle your way into the next chapter. You just need to stay tuned into the Voice that knows what’s ahead.
Key Takeaways from “Cleared for Takeoff”
- Waiting is not a punishment; it’s preparation.
- God’s delays are often divine protection.
- Don’t confuse movement with progress.
- If you don’t have peace, don’t move.
- God’s timing is always worth the wait.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason pilots check with the control tower. There’s a reason they review the maintenance logbook and do a walkaround before even starting the engine. It’s not about being slow – it’s about being safe. Spiritually, we need to do the same. Check in with God. Review our hearts. Make sure everything is aligned before we attempt to take off.
So if you feel like you’re stuck on the runway, remember, you’re not grounded. You’re being prepared. And when God says, “You’re cleared for takeoff,” you’ll soar higher than you ever imagined.
Are you waiting for takeoff or trying to fly without permission?
John Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations.
