God’s Timing

“Why have You brought harm to this people? Why did You ever send me? Ever since I came to Pharaoh to speak in Your name, he has done harm to this people, and You have not rescued Your people at all.”—Exodus 5:22–23 NASB

Moses seemed like a failure. He had returned to Egypt at God’s direction, announcing that God had sent him on a mission to lead the Israelites to freedom. But when Moses approached Pharaoh, Pharaoh did not let the Israelites go. Instead, he imposed even greater hardships.

The Israelites were angry. They asked God to judge Moses, for he had made them “repulsive in Pharaoh’s sight” (v. 21). Understandably, Moses was confused and even angry. The people blamed him, but he blamed God.

God responded, “Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh” (Exodus 6:1). He reminded Moses that He still was the Lord. He still was sovereign. He kept His promises. But He reminded Moses that He had His own timetable.

God told Moses to repeat His commitment to the Israelites: He was the Lord and would deliver them from bondage. But the people would not listen. In the days to come, they would learn that God keeps His promises … in His own timing. What appeared to be a failure, simply was part of His timetable.

You may face situations that seem disappointing or confusing. It may seem that God has forgotten you. If this happens, like Moses, cry out to God. Let Him speak to you. Renew your trust in Him. Believe that He will fulfill His promises. Don’t place your faith in circumstances, but have faith in God. Remember that He has His own timetable.

Reflection Question: What’s something for which you’ve been asking the Lord for a long time?