How many times have you been traveling down the highway cruising right along when you come across those dreaded "Expect Delays Ahead" signs? How have you responded? If your like me, you've probably expressed some version of "you have got to be kidding me."
Why do we respond this way? Well, it could be that we just like to go fast and don't want to have to slow down. It could be that we are running late (that's usually my case) and are trying to make up for lost time. Or, it could be that we just do not like being inconvenienced. Maybe it's because we can't control the situation. Whatever the reason, have we ever considered why there is a delay in the first place? Road repairs? Widing of the road? An overpass? Additional lanes? Whatever the reason, ultimately, these delays are for our own good. It most likely means that the improvement(s)being made will enable us to reach our destination in a more safe and effcient manner. Secondary benefits may include less wear and tear on our cars, less miles traveled, less stress, a more senic trip ...
As we travel down the highway of life, God will often place "Expect Delays Ahead" signs in our path. They may come in the form of an illness, a lost job, a broken relationship, the loss of a loved one... Whatever the form, I have learned and am still learning that ultimately these "delays" are for our own good. They are meant to draw us closer to our heavenly Father. They our meant to help us grow in our faith and obedience to Him. They are meant to help us get our priorities right. They are meant to help us making God honoring decisions. God desires to have a personal relationship with each and everyone of us. It is His desire that no one should perish but that all should have eternal life (See John 3:14.)
Next time we come across a "Expect Delays Ahead" sign, let's welcome it and embrace it because it ultimately is for our own good.
BDE
