Our ordinary, day-to-day life does not pass like the flip of a page. It does, however, establish its own timetable, and there is a certain natural progression to the rhythm of life. Life is continually unfolding-but it is longer than simply turning a page or going to the next chapter in a book.
The time element was in play with Bible time characters (and I mean that in every sense of the word) as well. When we read of Abraham, David, Leah or Hannah, or Paul and the New Testament apostles and believers, we can completely lose perspective of the time element in their circumstances. The passage of time between events from one chapter to the next as their story unfolds is not necessarily clearly set out. In many instances, it was weeks, months or years between one event and another in the Bible.
We are taught in church, Sunday school or by parents/grandparents that God has his own timetable. Biblically, Isaiah 55 encourages and speaks of listening and seeking the Lord-that he will be found because of his compassion. The scripture also reminds that: “…my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than yours…” (vs. 8-9) This automatically includes the process of time.
Paul reminds the faithful followers of Christ in Ephesians 1:7-10, that they (and we) have redemption through the blood of Jesus, “…according to his purpose…” “…as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.” Time and waiting on God was obviously also a challenge for them.
Fast forward to today, and we still find understanding God’s timing a daunting task. We continue to make some effort to trust and rely on our Abba’s timetable. That persistent worry, that nagging pain or illness, those times of feeling alone or wrapped in fog; at those times the comfort of the promise whispers to us so sweetly. “I will never leave you or forsake you.”
The bottom line is, although we pencil in appointments and get-togethers on our calendars, we know there is a good chance these may need to be rescheduled. Life has many variables. The Overseer of all our times is The Ancient of Days, and he utilizes time differently and perfectly.
We can be encouraged that although “It is not for you to know the times and seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority” (Acts 1:7), we can stand on the great wisdom and faithfulness of our God. He will always do what is in our best interest-in immediacy or long term!
Sojourner 