It’s Not Time Yet
By
Lexi Ellis
“O Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your
words are trustworthy, and
you have promised these good things to your servant.”
2
Samuel 7:28 (NIV)
My husband and I
recently became the parents of an adorable German Shorthair puppy. Because he
still has his milk or “baby” teeth, we need to soften Calvin’s food. We add
water and put it in the microwave so it’s easier for him to eat. Calvin was
quick to associate the sound of the microwave with being fed. Unbeknownst to
him, the microwave is not exclusively used for his meals! Often, he will bolt
into the kitchen when he hears the microwave. He’ll sit - - staring at you with
those perfected “puppy eyes”/begging look. After that doesn’t work, he runs to
you, over to his empty food bowls and back to the container we keep his food.
One time, Calvin even jumped on top of the food container when we didn’t get
the picture.
I can almost hear him
saying, “Mom, Mom, I see my container of food and I hear the microwave. It’s
time to feed me.” Every time this happens, I always respond to him the same
way. “It’s not time yet. It’s not time yet. I know what’s best and I promise I
know what I’m doing.”
A couple times God has
responded that way to me. I am so convinced I know the best outcome, the best
solution. I tell God, “I hear this; I see this opportunity. It’s time!” And God
responds, “It’s not time yet.” I see my way and my solution right there - - that
container of food and that DING on the microwave - - it seems so clear! It
makes so much sense! And yet God’s response is “I know what’s best and I
promise I know what I’m doing.”
At the end of day, the
question becomes: Am I willing to trust that God’s way is best? That despite
how clear it is to me, my perspective is limited and His is not. Whatever the
circumstance, we’re often quick to search for an easy, yet ideal, solution for
ourselves or for others. Let us remember to turn to Him in faith even when we
think we know a better solution.
While Calvin is still
convinced any time the microwave dings it’s meal time, I am thankful for the
reminder that I need to know God’s Plan is best even when it’s not my way.
GOING DEEPER:
1. Is there a situation
in your life or in the life of someone you love where God’s solution isn’t your
ideal outcome?
2. What do you need to
do to surrender in faith and trust His timing, His way and His guidance?
FURTHER READING:
Lexi
is married to Andrew, serves with Oakwood’s Children’s Ministries, teaches at Lake Country
Christian Academy
and is the Fresh Start Coordinator.
