Waiting for God’s Time

For years, David knew that he had been anointed king of Israel. Yet he seemed reluctant to take up that role. His supporters urged him to kill Saul when he had the opportunity. But David declined, saying, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed” (1 Samuel 24:6 NIV).

David even refused to declare himself king after Saul’s death. Although many did not understand this reluctance, David felt that he could not force this calling; he had to wait for the right time.

After becoming leader of the tribe of Judah, he waited seven years before being asked to be king. Because of this patience, no one could say he had forced his way into the kingship. No one could accuse him of conspiring to overthrow the king, lead a rebellion, or plot his own coronation.

This is the kind of patience that pleases God. He wants us to be diligent to seek His answers, but we can be impatient and want Him to take action immediately. He wants us to understand that His timing may not be our timing, and He knows what’s best for us. He wants us to be confident that He will act at just the right time.

David himself later wrote, “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7).

Today, in your life, learn to trust God. Have faith that He will act on your behalf at just the right time.