Articles
Using Profitably the Delays of God
The Bible includes several examples of people who were compelled to wait. Some used their time well. Some didn’t. Let’s see what we can learn from their experience.
►Those who used the delays of God to sin
While Moses was on Mt. Sinai receiving the Law, the people grew impatient and asked Aaron to make a god for them. The resulting golden calf was a major setback—a gross violation of their covenant with God. Many died (Ex. 32).
Samuel told King Saul to wait seven days until he arrived to offer burnt offerings (1 Sam. 10:8). When the time had passed and Samuel hadn’t come, Saul took it upon himself to offer the sacrifice, though he was not a priest. As soon as he finished, Samuel arrived and rebuked him for his disobedience (1 Sam. 13). For Saul it was downhill from there. He never recovered.
►Those who used the delays of God to advantage
Shortly before returning to heaven Jesus commanded His apostles “not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised …” (Acts 1:4 NASB). During the ten days that followed they spent their time in fellowship and prayer (Acts 1:14). Then came Pentecost and the glorious beginning of a new era.
Paul traveled extensively in his work for the Lord. But when confined as a prisoner for the gospel, what could he possibly do then? With a chain on his wrists he wrote Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon. He evangelized those who came to him. He sent his coworkers on important missions where he could not go. He prayed.
►And we?
What if we must wait for years for our prayers to be granted? What if we are confined by a lingering illness? Such times test our faith.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28). That’s His promise.
Let’s trust Him.
