Getting Ahead of God

Click Here for Today's Reading: Gen 16–18 | Prov 3:1–10 | Luke 6

Scripture: Is anything impossible for the Lord? At the appointed time I will come back to you, and in about a year she will have a son.” - Genesis 18:14 (CSB)

I’m reminded of a woman I worked with years ago who tried for years to match-make for her daughter, pushing her toward men she thought would be good husbands. None of them worked out. But when she finally stopped forcing it and waited, God brought the right man at the right time—and the daughter built a beautiful family she might have missed if her mother had continued pushing. Getting ahead of God always complicates what He intends to bless.

When God promised Abraham and Sarah a son, the promise seemed delayed and impossible. Instead of waiting, Sarah tried to “help God out” by giving Hagar to Abraham—an act of polygamy that violated God’s design for marriage. Genesis had already shown the pain of polygamy with Lamech, Esau, and later Jacob, and Sarah’s decision only added more trouble.

Her impatience produced Ishmael—a son born from human effort rather than faith. His descendants would become many nations, and many would stand in opposition to Israel. Even today we see conflict in the Middle East that is the result of this decision. One rushed decision created generations of conflict. Yet even after Sarah’s failure, God returned in Genesis 18 to reaffirm His promise. His faithfulness stood firm despite human impatience.

Reflection: Where are you tempted to rush ahead of God? His timing is perfect. Trust Him enough to wait, believe, and rest instead of forcing your own outcomes.

Prayer: Lord, help me trust Your timing. Keep me from running ahead of You, and give me patience to wait for the blessings You have already planned.