Due to a tragic plane crash at the airport in San Francisco, our trip to New Zealand was delayed – for one day. We “lost” a valuable day of sightseeing in that beautiful country before we begin a series of Emotionally Healthy Leadership and Marriage seminars. 400 years ago Vincent de Paul said, “(The one) who hurries delays the things of God.” I have delayed many of God’s good plans through my impatience over the years. How interesting that this is God’s first gift to me on this trip. In fact, God has been delaying to my plans for over thirty-five years as a Christ-follower. Whether I was leading our college fellowship, relating to Geri, advising our children about their future, engaging in plans for New Life Fellowship Church, dreaming about new writing projects, or imagining a vacation, He has said “no” to many of my “good” ideas. I remember tonight that I am in good company:
- God said “no” to Abraham and Sarah as they prayed for 25 years for their first child.
- God said “no” to Jonah about not going to Nineveh.
- God said “no” to David when he wanted to build a great temple for his God (2 Sam.7).
- Jesus said “no” to Peter when he cut off a servant’s ear to keep Him from arrest and execution.
God, thank Your for this small reminder that You are God, not me. Break any self-will in me that, ultimately, will only delay Your work in and through me. Grant me grace and power that my will might be one with Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Rom. 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out.”
