Good morning and blessings on this Sunday 22nd September 2024! While this might seem like just another Sunday, this date has some history that resonates with what we often experience in life.
On this day in 1862, US President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves would be freed. It was the beginning of a long journey towards freedom and equality—though not immediate or complete, it was a powerful step in the right direction. And isn’t life often like that? We’re on a journey, sometimes it feels slow, and we might not see the immediate fruit of our efforts. But God, in His timing, brings everything together for good.
The message of freedom proclaimed on this day mirrors a spiritual reality we experience in Christ. Galatians 5:1 reminds us: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
God’s Perfect Timing
One of the biggest challenges we face as Christians is trusting God’s timing. Much like the slow road to freedom in history, God’s answers don’t always come when we want them. Waiting on God can feel frustrating, especially when you’re praying for something urgent. But here’s the thing: God’s timing is always perfect, even if it doesn’t match our schedule.
Consider the story of Lazarus. In John 11:1-44, we see how Jesus was told about Lazarus’ illness but delayed going to him. By the time Jesus arrived, Lazarus had been dead for four days. You can imagine the disappointment of Lazarus’ sisters, Mary and Martha. It seemed too late for a miracle. But Jesus didn’t just heal Lazarus; He raised him from the dead, showing that even when it seems like all hope is gone, God is never too late.
Finding Rest in the Wait
Waiting is hard, isn’t it? Especially in today’s world, where everything is instant. But God calls us to trust and find rest in Him during the waiting. Psalm 37:7 encourages us to “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” It’s not about sitting around passively, but actively trusting that God is working behind the scenes.
What are you waiting on today? A job, healing, a relationship to be restored? Perhaps, like the Israelites who waited centuries for their freedom, you’re feeling like the answer is far off. But remember, God’s plans are bigger than our own, and His timing is always right—even when it feels delayed. In those moments, instead of trying to force things to happen, take a deep breath and rest in God’s promises. He is always faithful.
A Moment to Reflect
Take a moment today to reflect on your own life. Are there areas where you’ve been waiting on God and you’re starting to lose hope? Are you feeling frustrated by the delays? Trust that God is working, even in the waiting. He knows what He’s doing, and His timing is never wrong. Remember, it wasn’t just about freeing slaves on a single day in history—it was about changing the course of nations. In the same way, God’s timing is about setting the course for your life.
Reflection Verse
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
Reflection Question with an Action Step
Where in your life are you struggling to wait on God’s timing? Take time today to pray about those areas and ask God for patience and trust. Write down a verse that encourages you about God’s timing (perhaps Romans 8:28) and place it somewhere you’ll see it every day this week. Whenever you feel anxious about the wait, turn to that verse and let it remind you of God’s faithfulness.
Encouraging Action
Today, choose to rest in God’s plan. Go for a walk, spend time in quiet reflection, or simply sit with your Bible and a cup of tea. Let God’s peace settle into your heart, trusting that He knows what’s best for you, even when it seems like nothing is happening.
