How can we discern God's timing in our decisions, based on John 7:6? The Verse at the Center “Therefore Jesus told them, ‘My time has not yet come, but your time is always at hand.’” (John 7:6) Why Jesus Waited • His movements were governed by the Father’s schedule (John 5:19). • He would not let human pressure hurry Him (John 7:3-5). • He trusted that the Father’s appointed hour would accomplish the greatest good (Galatians 4:4). Recognizing the Difference Between “My Time” and “God’s Time” • “My time” is when I see an opportunity and want immediate action. • “God’s time” is when the Father’s purpose, provision, and peace align. • Jesus warns that living by “my time” keeps life on a merely human plane; waiting for “God’s time” invites divine results (Isaiah 55:8-9). Practical Ways to Discern God’s Timing 1. Saturate every decision with Scripture – God’s will never contradicts God’s Word (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. Pray until desire and direction match His peace – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). 3. Look for Spirit-led circumstances – “A man’s steps are from the LORD” (Proverbs 20:24). Open and closed doors often signal His timing (Revelation 3:7). 4. Seek godly counsel – “In an abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 24:6). 5. Check motives – Am I advancing God’s glory or my agenda? (1 Corinthians 10:31). 6. Be willing to wait – “Wait patiently for the LORD” (Psalm 37:7). Delay may refine faith and character (James 1:3-4). 7. Hold plans loosely – “You ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that’” (James 4:15). Signs You Are Moving in God’s Time • Persistent scriptural confirmation. • Inner assurance that withstands external pressure. • Providential alignment of resources and relationships. • Fruit that advances the kingdom and blesses others. Encouragement for the Waiting Season • Your times are in His hand (Psalm 31:15). • He makes everything beautiful in its time (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11). • What He plans, He completes—never early, never late (Philippians 1:6). |
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