Timing, Temperance, and Spiritual Growth

"To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven:" - Ecclesiastes 3:1 (AMP)

Time... It happens to be such a matter of importance, that we overlook it; that is until the appointed times have passed. Some of us tend to get caught up in trying to accomplish so much within a short window of time, that we force ourselves into doing everything at the last minute, or we wind up always being late. There are others of us who are always late, honestly due to being lazy, and then there are those of us seem to always be punctual, scheduled and  prioritized, rarely being tardy for any occasion. This makes me consider the death and resurrection of Lazarus; a friend of Jesus, brother of Mary and Martha. When he fell ill, the sisters called upon Jesus to heal him before it got worse... early. However, he tarried. And by the time he arrived to tend to the matter, his friend Lazarus was dead. Herein was the shortest verse of the Bible penned, "Jesus wept." (John 11:35) Oftentimes, we're placed in uncomfortable situations; the majority brought on by our own disobedience or faults, not considering the fact that every step we take, and every mishap we encounter has all been written aforetime. ALL carefully orchestrated by God to strengthen our patience & trust in Him; likewise, that we may marvel and have a testiomony to share, being a living witness to others of His unfailing love, provision & power. Howbeit, be warned that our free will can interfere, or disrupt God's course for lives. Nevertheless, as long as we ARE walking in God's will and being obedient to His Word, everything will work out fine, according to His purpose, yet in HIS perfect timing, which is most often when we NEED it, NOT when WE WANT it. It's a must that I reiterate this, and that we remind ourselves when issues seem to overwhelm us... What it takes on our part is exercising patience, fully trusting in God and holding fast to His Word, and the understanding and belief that all things will work together for our good. So don't panic, but understand God's timing... and don't be easily swayed by occurring events but grow intemperance. Remember that even in the most dire straits, "God will supply ALL our needs, according to HIS riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19) Love God... Trust God... Rest on His promises.