His timing is timely

In 1 Samuel 1:4-20 we find the story of Hannah, a distressed woman. Hannah was one of Elkanah's two wives. Elkanah's other wife, Peninnah, was blessed with many children (and made sure boast about it). As for Hannah, "the Lord has closed her womb." Hannah's prayers were not answered quickly...and in the meantime she endured much riticule from all too-proud momma Elkanah. From our perspective is may seem as if God's timing is delayed, unfair, or inconvenient. However, His timing is timely.

"It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority"-Acts 1:7

What a relief to know that I'm not in control! God, who knows us better than we know ourselves, who desperately wants a relationship with us, who desires for us to glorify His name, is in control. When we are troubled in spirit we should turn to God and pray. It's hard for us to understand why certain things happen, but we can find rest in knowing that God works on His watch, not ours. For Hannah,

"The Lord remembered her. And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, 'I have asked for him from the Lord."-1 Samuel 1:20

Hannah's prayers were answered on God's time. How did Hannah respond? She didn't complain that it had taken so long...she didn't rub it in Elkanah's face. She fell to her knees in worship and prayer. She rejoices in the Lord's salvation, knowledge, strength, and power. In response to God's great authority and provision, our first response should be that of worship. Thank you God for your timing. Help me to remember that I am not in control. All things are for your glory and will happen only if you permit it.