Embracing God's Perfect Timing in Our Lives
Summary
Trusting God’s timing is often one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey. In John 11:7-16, the story of Jesus’ delay in going to Lazarus reveals that waiting is not a sign of God’s absence or indifference, but rather an invitation to deeper trust and growth. The disciples, Mary, and Martha all struggled to understand why Jesus would wait when their need was so urgent. Yet, Jesus’ delay was purposeful—He sought not only to heal, but to reveal a greater vision of God’s glory and to strengthen the faith of His followers.
Waiting is a universal human experience, whether it’s for healing, provision, or answers to prayer. Our natural inclination is to resolve uncertainty as quickly as possible, but God often uses these seasons to cultivate patience, faith, and the fruit of the Spirit within us. Just as the orchard owner waits for the durian to ripen naturally, trusting the timing set by God, we too are called to wait for God’s perfect timing, knowing that premature action can compromise the sweetness of what He intends for us.
God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours, and His delays are not denials. Jesus’ decision to return to Judea, despite the danger, was not just about Lazarus, but about preparing the disciples for greater challenges ahead. The metaphor of walking in the daylight reminds us that as long as we walk in God’s will, we are under His providential care—no danger or circumstance can thwart His purpose for our lives. Our allotted time is in His hands, and we are called to seize every opportunity to glorify Him.
Fear and confusion often accompany waiting, but these emotions are not signs of weak faith. Even the disciples, who walked with Jesus, struggled with doubt and fear. Jesus continually sought to deepen their faith, moving them from superficial resolutions to genuine trust in God’s care. In our own waiting, we are encouraged to be honest with God, to process our emotions, and to remember that His delays are often the very means by which He grows our faith and reveals His glory.
Ultimately, trusting God’s timing is an act of faith that leads to spiritual maturity. God’s plans for us are good, and even when we cannot see the outcome, we can rest in the assurance that He is always at work for our good and His glory.
Key Takeaways
- God’s Delays Are Purposeful, Not Punitive
God’s timing often involves waiting, but these delays are not arbitrary. They are designed to grow our faith, reveal His glory, and prepare us for greater things. When Jesus delayed going to Lazarus, it was so the disciples could witness a greater miracle and develop a deeper trust in Him. [43:25]
- Patience Is a Spiritual Discipline That Bears Fruit
Waiting is not passive resignation but an active process where the fruit of the Spirit—patience, faith, and self-control—are cultivated. Just as the best fruit ripens in its own season, our character matures as we trust God’s timing rather than forcing our own solutions. [41:05]
- Walking in God’s Light Brings Security Amid Uncertainty
Jesus’ metaphor of walking in daylight teaches that as long as we are in God’s will, we are under His protection and guidance. No circumstance, danger, or opposition can shorten or derail God’s purpose for our lives. Our responsibility is to seize the opportunities He gives us, trusting that our times are in His hands. [52:53]
- Fear and Doubt Are Part of the Journey, Not the End
Even devoted followers of Jesus experienced fear, confusion, and doubt in the face of uncertainty. These emotions are not failures but invitations to deeper faith. Processing our fears honestly before God and seeking His perspective allows us to move from anxiety to trust. [01:01:12]
- Trusting God’s Timing Leads to Deeper Faith and Greater Joy
Jesus rejoiced that His delay would result in stronger faith among His disciples. Our waiting seasons are opportunities to rely more fully on God, to anticipate His work, and to grow in resilience. God’s plans are always for our good, and His timing, though mysterious, is perfect. [01:03:38]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[33:45] - Opening Prayer for the World and Leaders
[34:47] - Prayers for Church, Pastors, and Those in Need
[35:36] - Assurance of God’s Unfailing Love
[37:14] - Reading John 11:7-16
[38:50] - The Challenge of Waiting on God
[39:46] - The Fruit of the Spirit in Waiting
[41:05] - The Durian Analogy: Trusting God’s Seasons
[42:11] - Prayer for Understanding God’s Timing
[43:25] - Context: Jesus’ Delay and God’s Glory
[44:45] - God’s Ways Are Higher: Isaiah 55
[46:07] - Jesus’ Purposeful Delay and the Disciples’ Test
[47:03] - Faith Strengthened Through Trials
[48:30] - God’s Schedule and Our Growth
[50:30] - Walking in the Light of God’s Providence
[52:53] - Security in God’s Will
[54:01] - Making the Most of Our Time
[55:01] - God’s Perspective on Death and Life
[57:09] - Overcoming Fear and Trusting God
[58:41] - Jesus’ Joy in Growing Our Faith
[59:57] - The Emotional Toll of Waiting
[01:01:12] - Honest Faith in Seasons of Waiting
[01:02:20] - Waiting as an Active Process
[01:03:38] - Trusting God’s Good Plans
[01:05:04] - Final Encouragement and Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Trusting God’s Timing
*(Based on John 11:7-16 and supporting passages)*
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### Bible Reading
- John 11:7-16
- Isaiah 55:8-9
- Romans 8:28
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### Observation Questions
1. In John 11:7-16, what reasons do the disciples give for not wanting Jesus to return to Judea? How does Jesus respond to their concerns? [[37:14]]
2. According to the sermon, what was the purpose behind Jesus’ delay in going to see Lazarus? [[43:25]]
3. What metaphor does Jesus use to explain walking in God’s will, and what does it mean in the context of this passage? [[50:30]]
4. How does Isaiah 55:8-9 relate to the way Jesus handles the situation with Lazarus? [[44:45]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says that God’s delays are purposeful, not punitive. What does this mean for how we interpret times of waiting or unanswered prayer in our own lives? [[43:25]]
2. Jesus uses the image of walking in daylight to describe living in God’s will. What does it look like practically to “walk in the light” when facing uncertainty or fear? [[50:30]]
3. The disciples, Mary, and Martha all struggled with fear and confusion during the waiting period. How does the sermon suggest we should process these emotions as part of our faith journey? [[01:01:12]]
4. Romans 8:28 says that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. How does this promise shape our perspective on God’s timing, especially when the outcome is unclear? [[01:03:38]]
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### Application Questions
1. Think of a time when you felt God was delaying an answer to your prayer. How did you respond emotionally and spiritually? Looking back, can you see any purpose in that waiting period? [[43:25]]
2. The sermon uses the analogy of waiting for durian fruit to ripen. Is there an area in your life where you are tempted to “pick the fruit early” instead of waiting for God’s timing? What would it look like to wait patiently in that situation? [[41:05]]
3. Jesus’ disciples were afraid to return to Judea because of the danger. Is there something you feel called to do that you are avoiding out of fear? What would it mean to “walk in the daylight” in that area of your life? [[50:30]]
4. The sermon encourages us to be honest with God about our fears and doubts. What is one fear or doubt you are currently experiencing that you can bring to God in prayer this week? [[01:01:12]]
5. Patience is described as an active process, not just passive waiting. What is one practical step you can take this week to cultivate patience or another fruit of the Spirit during a season of waiting? [[39:46]]
6. The sermon says that God’s delays are often the very means by which He grows our faith and reveals His glory. How can you remind yourself of this truth when you feel frustrated or discouraged by waiting? [[43:25]]
7. Romans 8:28 and Jeremiah 29:11 both speak of God’s good plans. How can you encourage someone else who is struggling with God’s timing, using these promises? [[01:03:38]]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God's Timing in Uncertainty
Waiting on God's timing often challenges our desire for control and certainty, yet it is in these seasons of waiting that faith is refined and character is developed. When we are tempted to rush ahead or become anxious about unresolved problems, we are invited to trust that God is working for our good, even when His answers seem delayed. The process of waiting is not wasted; it is a sacred opportunity to grow in patience, faith, and the fruit of the Spirit, allowing God to shape us for His purposes. As we surrender our timelines and expectations, we learn to rest in the assurance that God’s timing is always perfect, even when it is difficult to understand. [38:50]
John 11:7-16 (ESV)
Then after this he said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.” The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone you, and are you going there again?” Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”
Reflection: Where in your life are you struggling to wait on God’s timing, and how might you invite Him into your uncertainty today instead of rushing ahead with your own plans?
Day 2: God’s Ways Are Higher Than Ours
God’s perspective far exceeds our own, and His plans often unfold in ways we cannot predict or comprehend. When we face delays or detours, it is a comfort to remember that God’s wisdom surpasses our limited understanding, and His intentions for us are always rooted in love and purpose. Embracing this truth allows us to release our grip on how we think things should happen and to trust that God’s ways, though mysterious, are always for our ultimate good. In moments of impatience or confusion, we are called to rest in the knowledge that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours, inviting us to surrender and trust Him more deeply. [44:45]
Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV)
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
Reflection: What is one area where you have been insisting on your own way, and how can you surrender it to God’s higher wisdom today?
Day 3: Walking in the Light of God’s Providence
To walk in the light is to live with the confidence that God’s providence guides and protects us, even when the path ahead seems uncertain or dangerous. Jesus teaches that as long as we are following God’s will, we are under His care and nothing can thwart His purposes for our lives. This assurance frees us from anxiety and fear, empowering us to seize the opportunities God places before us and to trust that our days are in His hands. Rather than being paralyzed by what-ifs or potential dangers, we are called to move forward in faith, knowing that God’s light will illuminate our steps and His timing will never fail. [52:53]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Reflection: What step of faith can you take today, trusting that God’s providence is guiding and protecting you, even if you feel uncertain?
Day 4: Faith Strengthened Through Trials and Delays
God often uses trials, delays, and seasons of waiting to deepen our faith and draw us closer to Him. These times are not signs of God’s absence but opportunities for our trust in Him to be refined and for our spiritual maturity to grow. Even when we do not understand the reasons for our suffering or waiting, we can be assured that God is at work, shaping our character and preparing us for greater things. As we persevere through difficulties, our faith becomes more genuine and resilient, resulting in praise, glory, and honor to God. [58:41]
1 Peter 1:6-8 (ESV)
In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.
Reflection: Think of a current trial or delay you are facing—how might God be using this season to strengthen your faith and prepare you for what’s next?
Day 5: Hope in God’s Promises for the Future
Even when life feels uncertain or difficult, God’s promises remain steadfast—He has a plan for your life, one that is filled with hope and a future. Trusting in God’s faithfulness means believing that every delay, every challenge, and every unanswered prayer is woven into His greater purpose for your good. As you wait, you are invited to actively seek God, prepare your heart, and anticipate the ways He will work all things together for your benefit. Let His promises anchor your soul, giving you courage to face each day with hope and confidence in His unfailing love. [01:05:04]
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Reflection: What is one hope or dream you are holding before God, and how can you trust His promise to work all things for your good as you wait?
Quotes
So Jesus' delay is intentional and serves a greater purpose, bringing glory to God through the upcoming miracles. Remember in John 11, verse 4, he explained that Lazarus' condition was not a setback, but a set up for the demonstrations of divine power. [00:47:51] (25 seconds)
As we cannot make the sun set a minute earlier, neither can we alter the plan of God in our life. God's timings for our life is measured. We will not aspire before his providence for us has completed its course. God gives each one of us a specific span of time to live for him. We cannot extend that time one day. We are not vulnerable until our word is done. [00:53:49] (34 seconds)
If Jesus merely healed a sick man, there will be a cure for praise. However, He raised a man from the death, which leaves no doubt or no room to suspect that He is God Himself. His disciples need a clear grasp of the deities of Christ. [01:02:20] (19 seconds)
Romans 8 verse 28 It reassure us that all things work for the good of those who love Him. This promise served as an anchor.of our faith, reminding us that God is always at work, even when we can't see it. Romans 8, 28, and we know in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who has been called according to his purpose. [01:04:18] (34 seconds)
Trusting God's timing is an act of faith. Jesus' statement here revealed that delay can lead to pronounced spiritual growth and deeper belief. Sometimes, God's timing is meant to encourage us to rely more fully on Him. [01:03:38] (20 seconds)
Nothing as well will don't God's purpose on our life. We can walk into danger knowing that we will operate under the providence of God. God allocates each person a specific time to fulfill his will for him or her. However, no reversal, no accidents or calamities can shorten it. [00:53:24] (25 seconds)
I urge you to trust God's timing in your life, even though it's difficult, reminding you that God is faithful and his plans are good for you, encouraging you to seek God actively during your waiting time. [01:05:35] (15 seconds)
So God institutes the delay in our life for the purpose of testing our faith. They are part of God's plan for our life. We need to accept God's schedule for us. God's test has many purposes, such as our personal growth, testimony to those without Christ, encouragement to those with Christ. [00:48:47] (29 seconds)
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