Delays have become a part of life and we might as well accept it. To name a few, we experience delays when traveling, attending scheduled appointments, or working with technology. Human beings do not graciously welcome delays even if they are connected to positive outcomes. Only the Spirit can develop patience within and produce self-control in us, because our human inclination is to hunger for immediate gratification.
Immediate gratification is all about desire and satisfaction. Our brains want satisfaction now, because otherwise we are uncomfortable. We are inclined to sacrifice what is greater in the future, for something that is immediately before us. For example, we may be willing to put on credit what we know we cannot afford, because we want it now.
Although sometimes God allows certain delays in order to help us grow and develop in the fruit of the Spirit, he never delays in affirming his love for us. We cannot be separated from God’s love. Paul reminds us of this promise, “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love” (Ro 8:38).
This week, as we approach Thanksgiving Day, let us remember there are many reasons to praise the Lord; to proclaim our gratitude and give him thanks. I am so grateful for God’s deep and abiding love; a love that never lets us go and never fails us. We can so quickly wander from our secure connection with Christ, because the world is always luring God’s people to reach for that which is tangible—immediate gratification. However, God has promised us a reward in the future that is unimaginable (1 Cor 2:9). If we have to surrender something today—or delay our gratification because the timing is not right—then, we must place our faith and confident trust in the Truth that God never withholds any good thing from us. In time, God’s goodness and blessing will manifest.
Psalm 117 NLT
1
Praise the Lord, all you nations.
Praise him, all you people of the earth.
2
For his unfailing love for us is powerful;
the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever.
Praise the Lord!
Prayer: Lord, help us to increase in the fruit of patience, so we can hold out for the promise you have made to us. We know our future will be glorious and whatever we sacrifice today, you will make up for it in the days ahead. In the meantime, we want to thank you for your unfailing love and faithfulness. These are two amazing gifts for which we are truly grateful. In Jesus’ name. Amen.