Introduction

It’s often hard to wait, especially when we are waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled. We experience disappointment, confusion, and discouragement when we are doing our best to trust and obey God but nothing seems to be happening for a long time. Waiting is difficult because we are not in control of our desired results or expectations. Unless we understand that God is doing “behind the scenes”, we cannot endure this waiting period.

Four “Behind-the-Scenes” Preparations of God

1. He prepares our context. (Genesis 37:5-8) Often we assume God’s promises will just happen just like that, i.e., with no preparation. But God knows better. He prepares our context long before we even understand what is happening. He may give us a promise now, but it may take a while to prepare our context to fulfill it. Therefore, we must trust in God’s perfect timing.
2. He prepares our competence. (Genesis 39:1-4) Often we are not yet ready to handle the situation that would be necessary for the promise to be fulfilled. Therefore, God will prepare our skills beforehand. When the time comes, we will be ready. This may be difficult because there would be a lot of learning involved along the way. But we must be faithful with little things (i.e., small beginnings) as well as big challenges.
3. He prepares our companions. (Genesis 42:3-7; 43:8-9) God’s promise is not just for ourselves but for other people as well. We will not be the sole beneficiary of God’s promise to us. Others will also benefit. Therefore, God will prepare our companions or those who would be part of the fulfillment of God’s purposes. Our response should be: be patient and forgiving of others. They, too, will be blessed together with us.
4. He prepares our character. (Genesis 45:2-8; 41:1,8,15-16,50-52; 50:15-21) God’s promise is not just about receiving something; it’s also about becoming the kind of person God can entrust His power to in order to fulfill His purpose. We must listen to what He’s teaching us. Along the way, we will experience true transformation. He wants us to be a blessing of His goodness to others right here, right now, as well as in the future.

Conclusion

While God is preparing, be patient in your waiting.

Discussion

1. Do you find it difficult to wait? Why?
2. How do you handle delays?
3. How would you apply today’s sermon next time there are delays?