How can we trust God's timing when promises seem impossible, like in Genesis 17:17? Setting the Scene: Genesis 17:17 “Then Abraham fell facedown. He laughed and said to himself, ‘Can a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Can Sarah give birth at the age of ninety?’” Observing Abraham’s Reaction • Abraham’s laughter sprang from sheer amazement, not rebellion. • His honest question highlighted the gap between human limits and divine ability. • God did not rebuke the laughter; He reaffirmed the promise, underscoring that His word is unshakeable (Genesis 17:19). Recognizing God’s Immutable Character • Faithful: “God is not a man, that He should lie… Has He spoken, and will He not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19) • Sovereign: He rules over the impossible (Luke 1:37). • Eternal: Time constrains creation, never the Creator (Psalm 90:4). • Purposeful: “So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). Lessons on Waiting for Fulfillment • Age, circumstance, and human weakness cannot thwart God’s plan. • Delays refine faith; they are not divine disinterest. • God’s timeline magnifies His glory—no one could credit Isaac’s birth to natural means. • Fulfilled promises often become the seedbed of future covenant blessings (Romans 4:19-21). Practical Steps to Rest in God’s Timing 1. Rehearse His promises aloud from Scripture. 2. Surrender personal deadlines; align desires with His revealed will. 3. Obey in present assignments—Abraham continued circumcision and hospitality while waiting. 4. Cultivate gratitude for past faithfulness; yesterday’s deliverances fuel today’s trust. 5. Surround yourself with believers who speak life and truth (Hebrews 10:24-25). Blessed Outcomes of Trusting His Schedule • A deeper, tested faith that honors God (1 Peter 1:7). • A testimony that strengthens others facing impossibilities. • Joy that surpasses circumstance, anchored in divine certainty (Psalm 40:1-3). • Participation in God’s redemptive storyline, far larger than personal comfort. Encouraging Passages to Recall • Habakkuk 2:3 – “Though it lingers, wait for it; it will surely come.” • Psalm 27:14 – “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous.” • Lamentations 3:25 – “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him.” • Galatians 4:4 – “When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son.” • 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise… but is patient with you.” |
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