Expect Delays

A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day – (2 Peter 3:8)

“The road will be closed to motorists until further notice. Drivers are being warned to expect likely delays in the area while the works take place…” I’m sure we’ve all heard or seen the phrase either during a car journey or before we are about to set off. It’s a phrase that brings about huge frustration and impatience in all of us.

Such emotions may have been on full display last year – and even at the beginning of this year with the country now in its third National Lockdown in less than 12 months due to the COVID pandemic. Many people would’ve gone into 2020 with plans to open businesses, buy houses, get married, move jobs and much more. However, for many, the virus meant that we had to delay certain plans that we had.

For the Christian, we do not like the word “delay.” We expect that no sooner we pray to God – that he will answer us straight away. Now, while that may be the case in certain instances – that is not always how God moves. So while it’s true to say that the Lord answers prayers, He only answers according to HIS time. We must not forget that, “A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day” (2 Peter 3:8)

Therefore, as believer’s we shouldn’t be surprised when we experience delays after we’ve prayed – not because of any doubt and unbelief but because God works according to his own schedule and not ours. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.

And so as you head into a new week – be reminded that God is always faithful – and no matter however long it takes (see the story of Abraham & Sarah) know that delay does not mean denial – rather see it as God strengthening your faith, patience, and character so that in your waiting you will be fully complete – lacking nothing (James 1:4).