We use the expression, "in God's time." When we say this, we mean "later," usually "much later." We give the impression we're ready to go but God's dragging His feet. Thus God appears slow or unwilling to respond. In fact, just the opposite is true. The Lord does not "delay long" over us but gives us "swift justice" (Lk 18:7-8). If He has His way, Satan will be quickly crushed under our feet (Rm 16:20).
It is our lack of faith which delays God's work (Lk 18:8). The fastest way to accomplish anything pleasing to God is by faith. Faith is expressed in many ways, especially through prayer. When we don't pray always but rather lose heart, we slow God down (Lk 18:1). It took longer for Joshua to win in the valley because Moses grew tired of praying on the mountain (Ex 17:12).
Because of our lack of faith and prayer, conversions of people and nations are being delayed. The ends to abortion, violence, starvation, and racism are delayed indefinitely. Even Jesus' second coming is put off because of a lack of faith and prayer on the part of God's people (cf 2 Pt 3:12). Most things happen in our time. When they're done in God's time, they'll be done immediately.
| PRAYER: | Father, I'm sorry for dragging my feet and delaying You. Increase my faith (Lk 17:5) Use me now. |
| PROMISE: | "I charge you to preach the word, to stay with this task whether convenient or inconvenient." –2 Tm 4:2 |
| PRAISE: | Praise the risen Jesus, Whose prompt obedience to the Father led to our salvation. Alleluia! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College