First, an aside. Can you believe it is already September 1?
Let’s continue with our discussion of Principle #4: God’s signature on events is timing.
In Eccl. 3:1a Solomon uses two Hebrew words that have a deeper meaning than our English words convey. The words used for “season” means “an appointed time or hour.” They are used a lot in Hebrew wisdom lit to represent God’s appointed times in His plans or intentions.
Another word is the one used for “activity” or events in 1b. Strangely, this word conveys the idea of delight. There is a delight or a blessing in discerning the timing of God.
Would you agree with me that the statement/questions I asked at the beginning of yesterday’s devotion might be true? “I think the #1 answer would have to do with timing. Why wait? Why so long? Why didn’t God answer sooner?” We find ourselves fighting God, questioning His wisdom AND MOST DEFINITELY questioning His timing rather than submitting our hearts and minds to the quietness and peace of surrender.
I like the quote Gail used in her response to yesterday’s devotion: “Time doesn’t heal; God heals, in time.”
To end the devotion today and to conclude Principle #4, there are four words which show up big in our discussion: trust, relationship, intimacy, and timing.
There is a section from the book that plays into this ending: “You asked for guidance and God led you to a wilderness. You anticipated insight in your life, and God gave you the truth about your life. The timing of it surprises you, but God’s never surprised by timing. It’s His signature on events.” (p.84)
“Father, all four of those words are important in my need desire to find Your will.”
I can see a growth pattern evolving in how the words are laid out… There has to be some level of trust to begin the relationship, it takes the relationship to build intimacy. As intimacy grows, one can begin to see and understand God’s timing. Definitely a work in progress.
Perfect analysis Ryan. They build upon each other.
That’s good, Ryan! Yes!
Yes, Bill, I do love how you’ve explained the deeper context of the Hebrew words used by Solomon. That definitely adds a layer of understanding what we would too easily miss on the surface.
Blessings!
Would you please pray for peace for Al’s wife, Janet, and their family/friends? Al passed away yesterday; not unexpected, but sad nonetheless. Al, Janet and I were once members of the same church. Thank you!
Glad that could help Martha. As for the more serious note: yes I will pray for Al’s wife and family. I am convinced that even when death is expected, like a battle with cancer, grief is still very raw and real.
I have found in my own life that God’s timing is absolutely perfect. And it is usually at the midnight hour, but He does come through!!!!!! Hallelujah!
Oh yes, those midnight hour answers. 🙂 But we have the assurance that God does come through.
Father, our walk with you is so amazing, so simple, yet so complex. Agree with Bill and Ryan, so many steps, that grow one upon the other. It all begins with love, to love You with all our heart, and realize who You are, and revere You as You are not as we want You to be. A lifetime of learning for sure.
Thanks for your prayer Gail. You are right. It does begin with love for Him. Loving God is the key to grasping His purpose for our wait.