I was once was told a story of a deacon who walked into the Pastor’s office and found the Pastor furiously pacing back and forth.
“Pastor, what is wrong?”
“I am in a terrible hurry!”
“I still do not understand what the problem is Pastor.”
“God isn’t!”
Sometimes in our Christian walk we get in a terrible hurry to do God’s will. We start to follow Christ and His calling and purpose for our life; we are ready to get it started and get it done. We develop such passion that when things do not start to happen as fast as we think they should, we wonder if what God has called us to will ever be accomplished in our lives. We start to lose heart because it is not happening the way we had planned it. We look so close at the little puzzle piece we have been given, that we miss the big picture in God’s ultimate plan.
In John 11 we read the story of Lazarus. Mary and Martha had sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was deathly ill. However, by the time Jesus got there Lazarus had been dead for four days. They thought Jesus was too late; He could heal the sick but Lazarus was dead. In their minds Jesus was four days too late to save His friend (vs. 21). Boy were they surprised when Jesus did the impossible, He brought Lazarus back to life whom had been dead four days. Jewish tradition (as I understand it) believes the soul lingers near the body for three days after which it goes on to the long home (present Heaven or Hell). God chose for people to believe He was too late so that Christ would be glorified (vs. 4) and His deity know.
God’s timing is perfect and precise down to the smallest detail. We can trust His plans for they are not flawed like those of man. God in His infinite wisdom knows when to rush in and when to wait. Remember, it is His glory and purpose that we are seeking; not our own. So when God tells us to go; let us run! But when God tells us to wait, let us be patient (Psalms 27:14). There is no need to lose heart, for He always finishes what He starts, His promises are never broken and He will never leave us or give us up (Phil. 1:6, Heb. 13:5).
Have you lost heart today? Have you allowed satan to discourage you? God is not through with you! Allow Him to encourage You today for He loves you and has great plans for your life!
Pray
Lover of my soul, You are great beyond what my mind can understand. You are so great that sometimes I get discouraged and I forget that You care so passionately about me. I know that I do not have to worry that You have pushed me to the “back burner” because You always have me in mind! Oh what an immeasurably wise and loving God You are! Encourage me today Lord and remind me of Your purpose and calling for my life. Guide me back to You when I forget that it is Your way and not mine. Use me to encourage others who have become discouraged and help them to have a deeper and closer walk with You. Hold me in Your arms, in Jesus’ most high name I pray, Amen (Let it be so)!
