This generation is often referred to as the "popcorn generation" due to our access to instant gratification and the constant influx of new things. It's no wonder that we struggle with contentment. We are bombarded with new iPhones every year and new trends every few months. This world has spoiled us, but not necessarily with good gifts. We have become accustomed to things moving at our own pace, as exemplified by the famous catchphrase, "It's my money, and I need it now" (call JG Wentworth). This has become the culture of the information age.
However, the Kingdom of God operates differently. As believers, our timing is irrelevant to how God works. God is the sovereign Father and the author of time, therefore operating outside of its constraints. Nevertheless, we often try to impose our own understanding of time onto His plans for our lives.
The seasons of life change, but they also remain for their designated time. Just like spring takes time to run its course and doesn't last for only a day, it's important to recognize that we are still in the spring of our lives, and that's okay! Instead of rushing for the arrival of summer, let's learn to appreciate and enjoy the spring season. Rather than constantly yearning for the next thing, let's learn to live in the present. Instead of rushing to hear what God has to say about the future, let's listen attentively to what He is saying right now.
I like to think of the seasons of our lives as levels, each meant to teach us more about God as we rediscover ourselves through Him. Every level comes with a new word or set of instructions from Him, intended to prune us until we resemble Him completely. Whether it's a season of learning forgiveness, patience, or silence, each new season has a valuable lesson.
At times, we become so eager for the next word or set of instructions that we neglect to complete what He last told us. I want to encourage us to stop rushing ahead of God. Let's go back and revisit what He last said. Have we obeyed His instructions? If not, there's still time to be obedient. Have we truly grasped the lesson of this season? If we believe we have, let's put it to the test. Are we responding differently? Have we experienced transformation in our thinking in that particular area? If we feel we've passed the test, let's circle back. Repetition is key. Let's review what we've learned and practice applying it. The point I want to emphasize is that God is still moving in this season. And if He's still moving, there is more to reap in the present. There is more to learn in the now. Let's linger in the lessons of our current season.
Often, we yearn for the next shiny new blessing, completely overlooking the fact that we've been living in answered prayers. I have personally experienced moments when I was so future-driven that I failed to appreciate the present moment I was living in. Life keeps moving, and it's easy to get caught up in the demands of adulthood. However, God has been teaching me the importance of being still. Take a moment to stand still and reflect on what the Lord has done. You're living in an answered prayer right now. It's here, in the present, so let's bask in it.
Personally, I am a planner at heart. In the past, I even had a meticulously crafted schedule for my life, foolishly assuming that I knew what was best for myself. It was arrogant of me to think that my timing could surpass God's wisdom. After all, only God has the ability to see the big picture and understand all the intricacies of our lives. We struggle to view things accurately in the present, and we lack the foresight to see the future unless God reveals it to us.
Reflecting on my journey, I now understand that if everything had gone according to my plan, I would likely be filled with regret for the choices I made. But thankfully, God's timely "delays" or outright "No's" have saved my life. In my rush to reach certain destinations, I was pushing myself towards paths that God never intended for me to take. I am currently learning to trust in His perfect timing, even when it feels like the waiting is prolonged. The next season will come in its time.
Be reminded that God has a plan - a better plan for you
Ecclesiastes 3:1 - There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven.
Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Romans 8:28 - And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Psalm 33:11 - The plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.
Psalm 32:8 - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 16:3-4 - Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.
1 Corinthians 2:9 - But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.”
Proverbs 16:9 - The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.
As we journey with Jesus, let’s be encouraged to move at His pace. God’s timing is perfect. He’s never too early or too late. God is the master strategist who stands outside of time. He was there, in the beginning, and always will be. The promises are secure. God always keeps His word.
So, as we navigate this journey called life, let's remember that it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of chasing the next big thing. However, in our pursuit, we often fail to appreciate the blessings that surround us here and now. It's essential to take a moment to pause, be still, and reflect on the countless ways the Lord has answered our prayers.
Let's wholeheartedly trust in God's impeccable timing. He alone comprehends the grander scheme of things and genuinely desires what is best for us. Personally, I’m making a conscious decision not to move ahead of God, that’s where avoidable mistakes tend to happen. If God is still moving in this current season, then count me in—I refuse to move forward without Him by my side.
I’m extending this invitation to you - join me in embracing each moment with open hearts and minds. Together, let us place our unwavering trust in God's perfect timing and allow Him to guide us toward the extraordinary plans He has prepared specifically for those who love Him.
Pray with me -
Heavenly Father, grant us the patience to wait for Your perfect timing. Teach us to surrender our desires and plans to You. Fill our hearts with peace and assurance, knowing that Your plans are far greater than anything we could imagine. Father, when impatience tempts us to rush ahead, remind us to be still and listen for Your voice. Help us to fully trust in Your leading, even when it seems like things are moving slowly or not according to our own timetable. May Your will be done in our lives, and may we find joy and contentment in each step of the journey.
In Jesus' name, amen.
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