“God will ensure my success in accordance with His plan, not mine.”
Francis Chan
Families who take road trips this summer will inevitably hear, “Are we there yet? When will we arrive?” I’ve been on my writing-a-manuscript road trip with God and yes, He’s heard me ask similar questions. One thing I’ve repeatedly had to learn is God’s timing is impeccable: “absolutely correct” and “beyond criticism.”
While at lunch with a friend, I bemoaned the delays in taking my manuscript a step closer to publishing. She encouraged me with these words from Galatians 4:4. “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” When I heard the words, “in the fullness of time,” the frustration within my heart was replaced with comfort and peace. I believe the manuscript will one day be published, but it will be in God’s perfect timing, not mine.
I wanted it published yesterday, but who am I to argue with God. If He wants it done tomorrow, then I must trust the One who knows what’s best. God puts the brakes on because He alone knows what lies ahead. Our part is to trust Him and to obey His next step. “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go” (Isaiah 48:17b).
When we experience delays, it’s helpful to remind ourselves of instances when we were grateful God chose a different timing than what we had in mind. Looking back, John and I are thankful he did not get into medical school the first time he applied. It would have been our first year of marriage and a 3-year program, rather than the more doable paced 4-year one he completed.
In what area(s) are you chomping at the bit to get it done and move forward? Step back, my friend, take a deep breath and say out loud, “In the fullness of time.” Keep obeying the Lord and take the next step He shows you. Remind yourself that at the proper time, God will bring it to fruition.
God’s timing seems to be His own little secret. The Bible promises us that He will never be late, but I have also discovered that He is usually not early. It seems that He takes every available opportunity to develop the fruit of patience in us.”
Joyce Meyer
Relevant Reflections:
In what situation, do you need to hear, “in the fullness of time?”
Reflect back to when God’s delays had your best interest at heart.
What is God’s next directed step He’s asking you to take?