The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you

2 Peter 3:9a

Strife and frustration describe my state of mind the year we tried to move to Lindale. We lived in Chandler. I taught in Lindale and had after school commitments in Tyler. This meant 30 minutes to work, 30 to activities, and 30 back home. My heart’s desire was for more family time in the evenings.

We put our house on the market, and in nine months, our house only showed three times; when it was messy. More than once did I question the direction in which I thought God was leading us.

After nine months, we took the house off the market. A month later, the Lord led me in a different direction, to interview for a position in a different district. I was hired, and we relisted the house. Soon, we had a contract pending, found a house in Tyler, and closed on both houses the same day.

Sometimes we get a prompting from God, but we get the timing or exact direction wrong. This happened with Abram and Sarai. In Genesis 15, God promised to give Abram an heir and offspring as numerous as the stars.

By Chapter 16, Sarai is getting impatient for the promise and attempted to “help God out.” She gives Abram her slave hoping she would have a baby for them, but it didn’t work out as she had planned. Hagar began to despise her and treat her with contempt.

When we try to “help” God with the plan He has for us, it’s safe to say we can make a mess of things. Many times, we are left with anger and frustration.

Waiting for His timing can be one of the hardest experiences He calls us through, but it is the most rewarding and encouraging when we allow God room to move, work, and carry out His plans for us.

Lord, help us to trust not only your promises, but also Your timing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Johna Clemons