Scripture reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1–11

God’s Timing Is Always Perfect

He has made everything beautiful in its time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

 

There are no clocks in heaven! God is eternal. He lives in an Eternal Now, not limited by time as we are. Yet he understands time better than any- one because after all, he created it! He knows the importance of timing.  When God acts, it is never late or early. He always enters the scene at just the right time!

For example, Jesus’ birth occurred at just the right moment in human history. The date was not arbitrary or accidental. God timed it perfectly.

But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. (Galatians 4:4–5. NLT)

Historians have often noted what a “fortunate coincidence” it was that Jesus was born at this particular moment in human history. World events in the first century were such that the Gospel message just “happened” to burst on the scene when circumstances were advantageous and people were ready to listen.

Politically, the Roman Empire was at its height. The entire Mediterranean region was experiencing an era of unprecedented peace (pax romana). The Roman system of roads and highways, coupled with a strong military presence, made travel safer than at almost any other time in history. When Jesus sent his apostles into all the world, it was actually possible to get there!

Culturally, the Empire was becoming more and more unified. Greek and Latin were spoken throughout the world, making communication between different tribes and nations possible. When the Gospel was preached throughout the world, most people could actually understand it.

Spiritually, there was a smorgasbord of religious options in the Roman Empire. Religious pluralism was the order of the day. Polytheism, Epicureanism, Platonism, Stoicism, Judaism, Secularism, Eastern Mystery Religions, and Emperor worship  were  all  competing  for  the  allegiance  of  human  hearts,  hungry  for spiritual meaning and significance. As alternatives were shown to be bankrupt, people became more and more open to considering the claims of Christ. When the Gospel was preached, people actually wanted to listen and consider what was being said.

But let me share another reality. When Jesus enters your personal world, God is engineering things so that the timing of his arrival is just perfect. When you are confronted with the claims of Christ and a decision is demanded, understand that God has orchestrated the timing so that the circumstances are optimal for you to turn from your sins and receive the Good News of salvation. Jesus’ arrival is never late and he is never early. Today is the day, now is the time of salvation. He has made everything beautiful in its time!

 

The present is the only time in which any duty may be done or grace received.

—C. S. Lewis

 

point to ponder • Although it may often feel that way, God is never late.

 

prayer focus  •  One who needs to invite Christ into his life today.