How does Exodus 2:18 encourage us to trust God's timing in our lives? Setting the Scene in Exodus 2:18 • “When they returned to their father Reuel, he asked, ‘Why have you returned so early today?’” (Exodus 2:18) • Moses has just fled Egypt, defended Reuel’s daughters at the well, and unknowingly stepped into the next chapter of God’s plan. • Reuel’s surprised question highlights something unusual: the daughters are home “so early.” That single observation invites us to notice the unseen hand of God orchestrating events down to the very hour. Seeing God’s Timing in an Ordinary Question • God arranged for Moses to arrive at the well precisely when Reuel’s daughters needed help. • Their earlier‐than‐usual return becomes the clue that God’s schedule, not mere coincidence, is unfolding. • Reuel’s simple query reminds us that what feels “early” or “late” to us is perfectly punctual to God (Isaiah 55:8-9). Connecting the Dots: Moses’ Road to Deliverance • An “early” return leads to hospitality (Exodus 2:20), marriage to Zipporah (2:21), and eventually Moses’ commissioning at the burning bush (3:1-10). • The chain begins with one timely act of kindness at a well—evidence that God uses ordinary minutes and hours to set up extraordinary purposes. • Galatians 4:4 underscores this pattern: “When the fullness of time came, God sent His Son…”—He always acts on schedule. Encouragement for Our Lives Today • Your life’s timetable—relationships, career moves, seasons of waiting—is held in God’s hands (Psalm 31:15). • Delays or accelerations you don’t understand may be the very moments positioning you for future fruitfulness (Romans 8:28). • Like Reuel’s family, we rarely see the whole picture in the moment, yet each “early” or “late” arrival can carry divine significance. Practical Ways to Cultivate Trust in God’s Timing • Review past instances when God’s timing proved perfect; record them to build faith. • Replace anxious “why now?” questions with worshipful acknowledgment: “My times are in Your hands.” • Stay available for seemingly small assignments, knowing they may connect to larger purposes. • Anchor expectations in Scripture—Ecclesiastes 3:1 assures us there is “a time for every purpose under heaven.” Cited Scriptures Exodus 2:18-21; 3:1-10 |
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