Old Father Time . . .
At times I joke that I'm going to write a book about Time. Those who know me smile because they know that I am sometimes late. I rationalize that my lateness is due to optimism, not to lack of trying. Optimistically I cling to the belief that "this time" I will get more done in less time than ever before. However, it does not happen, so I wind up having to apologize for my failure to appear on time. Does this scenario sound familiar?
In contrast, God is always on time. We may think He's late, but He's not. Throughout the scriptures we read about people becoming impatient with God's timing. The Israelite's waited and waited for the promised Messiah. Some gave up hope. But Simeon and Anna did not. They found themselves in the temple every day praying and waiting (Luke 2:25-37). Their faith was rewarded. They were allowed to see the infant Jesus when Mary and Joseph brought Him to be dedicated (Luke 2:27-32,38).
When we find ourselves becoming discouraged because God does not respond according to our timetable, remember that God's timing is always perfect, and it is worth the wait. When the set time had fully come, God sent his Son (Galatians 4:4).
Heavenly Father, we confess that we become impatient and discouraged, wanting answers to prayer in our own time and on our schedule. Please help us to learn to wait patiently for Your timing is all things. God's timing is always correct, wait patiently for Him to move for you.