God's Revealed Perfect Timing

Scripture: Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Genesis 21:2

Observation: Isaac is born at the time God had promised. He had before promised Abraham a son, and later promised him that he would have a son despite his old age, and finally promised him a son within one year. When Isaac was born, it happened at the exact time God promised.

Application: When I became unemployed, one of the things I tried to figure out was when God would respond and provide for my family. I thought it would be sooner, in timing with when my income expired, but I also knew that I had funds through another milestone, and believed God was indicating it was that milestone where he would respond. That milestone was January, and here I am today in my new job.

There is much made of God's timing, but perhaps the real issue is our timing. God not only has his own timing, but he often reveals what that timing will be. When it isn't what we think or hope, we discuss "God's timing" ... which we may try to call "perfect" but often we mean we are trying to reconcile our minds to it but we wish it were something (usually sooner). If we just adjusted to what God reveals to us, we would be content and well.

Even Abraham never quite fully adjusted to God's timing, which is why Sarah laughed in disbelief and even still marveled at the timing after Isaac was born. I struggle with some of God's timing, though I don't always hear clear messages on the chosen timing. However, I will consider his timing in the future, for when I align myself to his vision and timing I am likely to be content, happy, and even in wonder at his promises.

Prayer: Lord, please fill me with more of your spirit this day, so I can better understand your will and timing. I seek your way, in not just 'what' and 'how' but also 'when'. Amen.