In our fast-paced world, we often expect God to move according to our calendar. But real life reminds us: delays happen. There are times when answers do not come, prayers seem unanswered, and progress appears stalled.
This message is timely because many of us have experienced delays — in school, jobs, healing, relationships, and even ministry. But God is never late. We must remember: delays are not denials.
The Bible is filled with stories of delays: Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac. Joseph waited over a decade from his dreams to fulfillment.
David was anointed king as a teenager but waited years before ascending the throne. Even Jesus delayed coming to Lazarus until after his death. In all these, God had a purpose.
The Jewish people understood waiting. They waited for the Messiah for centuries. Their Scriptures (our Old Testament) are filled with the lament of delay — especially in the Psalms and Prophets. Yet within every delay, God was shaping His people.
First, trust God’s timing.
John 11:6 says, “So when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.”
In John 11, Lazarus was deathly sick. His sisters, Mary and Martha, urgently sent word to Jesus. Instead of rushing, Jesus deliberately delayed. This confused everyone — why wait?
In ancient Israel, a rabbi or teacher was expected to rush to help, especially a friend. Jesus’ delay challenged social and emotional expectations. But He had a greater purpose: to reveal His glory.
God’s delays are often divine setups for something greater. Like Mary and Martha, we want immediate rescue. But God’s timing reveals His power, not just His compassion.
If Jesus had arrived earlier, Lazarus would have only been healed. But because Jesus waited, Lazarus was raised from the dead, and the crowd saw something much greater.
God’s timing is not ours but His timing is always perfect.
Second, let God develop you in the delay.
Genesis 39:23 says, “But the Lord was with Joseph… and gave him success in whatever he did.”
Joseph was sold into slavery at 17. From pit to Potiphar’s house to prison, years passed. But in each delay, God was developing his character. Ancient Egypt valued loyalty and skill, and Joseph learned both as a servant and administrator before ruling a nation.
We want promotion, but God is more interested in transformation. The delay is not punishment; it is preparation. Joseph’s character was shaped by hardship. So was ours.
God allows delays to prune pride, build perseverance, and prepare leadership. We can either become bitter or better during these seasons. | NWI
