Earlier this year, God taught me a lesson in the most unexpected way—through a missed alarm and a delayed flight. My family and I, worn out from a long night, overslept on the very morning of our much-anticipated trip of the year. When we finally woke up, we had only twenty minutes to reach the airport before check-in closed. It felt impossible. But in that frantic moment, we made a decision: We will do our part and trust God with the rest.
As we raced downstairs to catch a cab, my husband glanced at his phone and saw a message from the airline: The flight was delayed by forty minutes. Suddenly, what felt impossible became possible. We made it in time—not only to board but were even upgraded to business class. A double blessing!
As I sat in that comfortable seat, I felt the Lord whisper to my heart. How many times have I grumbled about delays, never stopping to consider that maybe—just maybe—God was orchestrating something bigger, for someone else’s good as well as mine? I found myself repenting of my impatience and praising Him for His faithfulness.
But then the Holy Spirit pressed deeper: What if this delay inconvenienced someone else, just so we could be blessed? Would I still rejoice if the tables were turned? It was a humbling moment—a reminder that God’s plans always reach beyond my personal comfort and timing.
Scripture is rich with reminders of this truth:
Joseph endured years of suffering and delay. At the end of his trial, he told his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20). His delay wasn’t just for his own growth—it was for the rescue of an entire nation.
Paul, confined in prison, saw his missionary travels delayed. Yet through that delay, letters were written—letters like Philippians and Ephesians—that continue to nourish the global Church today. He writes, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel” (Philippians 1:12).
An image comes to mind: a master weaver at His loom. From our vantage point, we see the tangled, knotted threads underneath—the delays, disappointments, and detours. But from above, God sees the beautiful tapestry forming. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Philippians 2:4 gently challenges our self-centered view: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Delays might feel personal, but in God’s grand design, they often ripple outward, blessing others in ways we may never fully know.
So, the next time you’re caught in a delay—whether it’s a missed flight, a closed door, or a prolonged waiting season—remember: His delays are not denials; they are divine designs.
| Consider This: Shift Your Perspective– When faced with delays, pray: “Lord, help me to trust Your bigger plan, even when I don’t understand the timing.” Ask for an eternal view over an earthly one. Bless in the Waiting– Choose to rejoice when you see others blessed, even if their blessing comes through your delay. Remember, your waiting might be someone else’s answered prayer. Rest in His Goodness– Meditate on Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Even in delays, He is weaving good because He is Good. May we learn to trust not just His hand, but His heart—knowing that in every pause and every postponement, our God is sovereign and loving. Lord, give me eyes to see Your hand at work, even when the clock says “wait.” |
