On God’s Timeline
Sermon Note
Timelines don't matter when you are TRUSTING God.
[1 Samuel 16:6-13] When they arrived, Samuel took one look at Eliab and thought, "Surely this is the LORD's anointed!" [7] But the LORD said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." [8] Then Jesse told his son Abinadab to step forward and walk in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, "This is not the one the LORD has chosen." [9] Next Jesse summoned Shimea, but Samuel said, "Neither is this the one the LORD has chosen." [10] In the same way all seven of Jesse's sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, "The LORD has not chosen any of these." [11] Then Samuel asked, "Are these all the sons you have?" "There is still the youngest," Jesse replied. "But he's out in the fields watching the sheep and goats." "Send for him at once," Samuel said. "We will not sit down to eat until he arrives." [12] So Jesse sent for him. He was dark and handsome, with beautiful eyes. And the LORD said, "This is the one; anoint him." [13] So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah.
Being PATIENT in the small things will often lead to being EFFECTIVE in the big things.
[1 Samuel 24:3-4] At the place where the road passes some sheepfolds, Saul went into a cave to relieve himself. But as it happened, David and his men were hiding farther back in that very cave! [4] "Now's your opportunity!" David's men whispered to him. "Today the LORD is telling you, 'I will certainly put your enemy into your power, to do with as you wish.'" So David crept forward and cut off a piece of the hem of Saul's robe.
Patience is letting GOD be GOD.
If God wants SOMETHING to happen then He will make it happen.
[Psalm 31:14-16] But I am trusting you, O LORD, saying, "You are my God!" [15] My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. [16] Let your favor shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me.
We may be in such a HURRY that we MISS God's blessing.
Lack of patience leads to ANGER.
[Psalm 37:7-8] Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. [8] Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper--it only leads to harm.