Sometimes delays are annoying, like when a friend promises to text back “right away”, but doesn’t. But sometimes delays are much more stressful, like waiting for the internet to come back on so you can check your exam results! Whether big or small, delays get in the way. But as Christians, we can ask Jesus to help us deal with them.

Joseph in the Bible gives us a great example of patience during delays. He was sold to slave traders by his jealous brothers, framed by his boss’ wife and put in prison in Egypt. “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him” (GEN. 39:20-21). Years later, when Joseph explained Pharaoh’s dreams, he was made second in command in Egypt (41:41).

The most amazing thing that came from Joseph’s patience happened several years later. His brothers came to Egypt to buy grain when they were running out of food. “I am your brother Joseph,” he told them, “the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you . . . So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God” (45:4-5,8).

In all our delays, short or long, may we, like Joseph, have patience and peace as we trust in God’s timing.

By: David McCasland

To Pray About . . .

Father in heaven, in all of our delays may we trust You to guide us to where You want us to be.