Charles Dickens novel The Tale of Two Cities sums up timing in the opening paragraph. This book begins with “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness. Depending upon your perspective of a half full glass of water, you’ll bring optimism or pessimism. Some days at work unfold in a pleasant way while others coincide with Murphy’s Law, “whatever can go wrong, will go wrong causing many to mutter, “talk about bad timing.”
Abram journeyed on, still going toward the South (the Negeb). 10 Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram [b]went down into Egypt to live temporarily, for the famine in the land was oppressive (intense and grievous), Genesis 12:9-10.
Following God’s introduction in Haran, Abram takes a step of faith to pursue a promised land and nation. Yet, Abram’s wife Sarai was unable to have children despite numerous attempts leaving her labeled as barren. Meanwhile, on his way to this land God was going to give to Abram, a severe famine halted the original plans. While there’s never a good time for unforeseen trials to enter your life, God allows this drought to occur to see how Abram will handle faith under pressure.
Hear counsel, receive instruction, and accept correction, that you may be wise in the time to come. 21 Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand. 22 That which is desired in a man is loyalty and kindness [and his glory and delight are his giving], but a poor man is better than a liar, Proverbs 19:20-22.
My move to South Carolina last summer can also be described as the best and worst of times. Great in the sense as it was the perfect time to sell a house, getting more than my wife and I expected. However, trying to find a new job in the middle of a recession was definitely bad timing. Just as Abram was tested in Egypt, my faith is still being grilled as I’m still waiting for God’s will for my future career to be revealed. As 2023 turns the page on January, don’t let bad timing rattle your faith. Rather, take the advice of Jesus’ earthly brother so maturity and wisdom will come to fruition as you undergo more trials this year, James 1:2-4.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 