Resisting The Rush
Have you ever found yourself rushing ahead, desperate for things to happen on your timeline instead of God’s? You’re not alone—I've been there more times than I’d like to admit. Waiting can be tough, especially when it feels like life is passing us by, or everyone else is moving forward. But when we push ahead without God’s green light, we’re often left with frustration, confusion, and sometimes regret.
Take Abraham and Sarah, for example. God promised them a child, but when the years dragged on, they grew tired of waiting and decided to take matters into their own hands. Sarah encouraged Abraham to have a child with Hagar, her maidservant, and so Ishmael was born. But the choice to rush God’s timing led to pain and strife that lasted generations. It’s a sobering reminder of what can happen when we push ahead without Him.
Then there are the disciples. After Judas’ betrayal, they needed a new twelfth member. But instead of waiting for clear direction, they cast lots and chose Matthias. The funny thing? Matthias is never mentioned again in the New Testament.
It’s a cautionary tale about how easy it is to make big decisions in haste—and how easily those choices can miss the mark.
Even Jesus faced pressure from those closest to Him. His brothers urged Him to start His ministry before it was time, trying to push Him forward, as told in John 7:3. But Jesus, in His wisdom, waited for the right moment, choosing God’s timing over human expectation.
So, how do we learn to live in step with God’s timing? It all comes down to knowing Him deeply and trusting that He truly does have our best at heart.
Here’s what’s helped me stay grounded (most of the time!) as I wait:
Prayer
Prayer is where it all begins. It’s not just about asking God for things; it’s about sharing your heart, being real, and then creating space to listen. When we come to God with honesty and consistency, we get to know Him better, and our hearts start to align with His. Prayer keeps us grounded and opens our eyes to what He’s doing behind the scenes, even when we can’t see it yet.
Scripture
There’s so much wisdom in the Word, and God speaks to us in fresh ways when we take time to dig in. Reading the Bible reminds us of His promises and helps us see how He’s always been faithful. It’s a steady reminder that He’s trustworthy, and it gives us the strength to wait, knowing He hasn’t forgotten us. Letting the Word fill our hearts can shift our focus from worry to trust.
Worship
Worship changes everything. When we take our eyes off ourselves and focus on God, we’re reminded of His power and His love. Worship isn’t just singing songs; it’s a way to surrender our plans and embrace God’s goodness. When we praise Him in the waiting, we let go of control and find peace, trusting that He knows what’s best.
Surrender
Surrender doesn’t come naturally—it’s a daily choice. Letting go of our plans and trusting in God’s timing requires faith and patience, especially when we can’t see the bigger picture. But surrender is where the magic happens. It’s in those moments that God does His best work in us, shaping us for what’s next. Trusting that His timing is perfect means believing that He knows our hearts and loves us enough to wait until the time is right.
By leaning into prayer, staying grounded in Scripture, worshiping wholeheartedly, and surrendering each day, we’re choosing to trust in God’s timing instead of our own. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that when I wait on Him, I experience a peace and joy that my own plans can’t deliver. So let’s make this a year of leaning in, letting go, and trusting that God’s timing is, in every way, perfect.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article reflect my personal Christian beliefs and are not intended to be imposed on others. Readers are encouraged to explore their own spiritual and professional beliefs in line with their values.