For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
Romans 5:6

Waiting is not one of my favorite things to do. No matter what I am waiting for, it seems that I am ready before it happens. Because I am so efficient and prepared for whatever may come? No, because I am impatient!

God’s first promise of a Deliverer was made in Genesis 3:15. He promised to bless the nations of the world through the Seed of Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3, & 22:18. The Deliverer was foretold to come from the tribe of Judah in Genesis 49:10. The promise was restated again regarding the Son of David. These [and other] instances of God’s promise regarding the Savior were not fulfilled until much later, when the virgin from Nazareth gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem. Why the wait? It wasn’t time until it was time.

Regardless of what we are waiting for, God’s timetable [though not the same as our own] is always right! He is never early or late. Here are three applications.

First, let’s try to be patient when we do not see what we want when we want it—God knows best.

Second, while anxiously awaiting the Second Coming of Christ, let us rejoice that the long wait affords time for more people to receive Christ. Aren’t you glad He waited for you?

Third, regarding those who we fear will never respond to the gospel, while there is no guarantee, let us hold out hope, that it is simply not yet His time.