- Psalms 19:7-11 - The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
- James 1:6-7 - But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
- 1 Samuel 13:8-14 - And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him. And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering. And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him. And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash; Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the Lord: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering. And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the Lord hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded thee.
- Proverbs 19:15 - Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
Every trial can be an opportunity for God to teach us about Himself and His ways more deeply. Yesterday we noted that to correctly understand God's promises, one must pay attention to the whole teaching of the Holy Scriptures. For example, the Lord's promise to provide for our needs must be considered along with other parts of the Bible. These verses show how a believer responds to God's provision with faith:
* We trust in God. Holy Scripture and the life experience of believers are testimony that God is faithful. When we trust Him, we see more clearly and accept what He provides. * We wait for His timing. Instead of waiting for Samuel, Saul hurried and offered a sacrifice. Although he won the battle, his disobedience had serious consequences. When we try to get ahead of God's timing, we may miss the best path He has prepared for us. * We live responsibly. If we want to understand God's will, we must pray, study Holy Scripture, and act with wisdom.
God knows our needs and is always faithful to His promises. Our task is to trust Him, wait patiently, and live under His guidance. He always provides in His wisdom and in His perfect timing.
Reflection
In what area of your life is it difficult for you to wait for God's timing, and what can you do differently today?
