Timing is everything.

Luke 1:61 -80

Prayer and trying to figure out God can be very frustrating. We have to keep in mind that we only see things from a limited point of view and God sees not just the “big” picture but the whole picture, from beginning to end, first to last, and all that was, along with all that will be. We have a tendency to believe that God is not answering our prayers when He takes longer than we think He should but…

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his prom“ise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

Zacharias has been mute since seeing the angel and being given the word about his son. There are various times in scripture where the prophet is told that the prophecy is to be sealed until the right time. This is one of those. While Zacharias’ unbelief caused him to become mute it was also the prophetic nature of the birth of his son that I believe the Lord wanted to keep quiet until the right time. The name “John” means, the Lord has shown favor and grace. His name is meant to be a sign of his position as the herald for the Messiah, the gift of God’s grace. Priests were the “hearers” of God’s voice and for a priest to name his son “John” had great prophetic significance. Everything needed to be in place for the coming Messiah and God did not want the forerunner to be mistaken as the Messiah. God kept the name of John quiet until the time was right. John’s birth was so miraculous and that tied into the significance of his name could have brought great confusion to the people. The name was given after all of the excitement would have died down so those closest to the situation would understand the significance but to others it was just another baby being born.

It is interesting to note that through both Mary’s and Elizabeth’s pregnancies prophecy has now been restored to the world. For four hundred years it has been nonexistent but now the grace gift of prophecy is also being the forerunner of Jesus life. Prophecy is being fulfilled because of John and Jesus’ lives and prophecy is being enacted through their births. God’s grace gifts are being restored to the world.

Timing is everything with God. As I mentioned earlier he knows the big picture and we as Paul said only see through a glass dimly. The whole idea of relationship is that even when we are not around the person we know we can trust their character, integrity, and relationship toward us. What are you believing for? Is it taking a long time to come? Jesus birth was prophesied 4000 years before his birth! What you are waiting for will not take 4000 years but even though at times you may not “feel” God or see Him we all must make the determination to trust Him and that He will answer our prayers. Take time today to believe Him again for what you have hoped for!

Nearly 40 people responded yesterday that they are reading this devotional. Thank you! If you have not responded I would appreciate knowing that you are benefiting from it. I am trying to be more consistent with the timing of the posting but like today, the internet went down in my area so this was posted late.