Beyond the Weekend

September 15 | Delay

September 15, 2021

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. Acts 16:7

Read: Acts 16:6-8
Listen: 
Acts 16

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Paul plans to head to Ephesus, but God prevents him from entering the province of Asia where Ephesus is located. The delay is disappointing, yet Paul trusts God’s timing. It’s not that Paul’s plan isn’t right; it’s just not for right now. Paul seeks God’s help in the delay, and God redirects him to another mission.

We face discouraging and disappointing delays as well. In the past eighteen months, we’ve had countless postponements. We’ve paused weddings. Infertility sets back our family’s growth. A series of job interviews end in yet another “we’re heading in a different direction.” Delays bring pain and confusion—and we may wonder where God is. They’re a frustrating part of our path in this life.

How we navigate the delays matters. There is an incredible opportunity in the delay for our faith to flourish or flounder. As we seek God’s help, we can remember he is faithful even if we don’t understand why we’re waiting. Our desires may be correct, but the timing isn’t. God can build and deepen our faith so we can believe he is at work in great opportunities and in disappointing delays.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Think about a delay you are currently experiencing or have in the past. Tell God you trust him, even though you don’t understand. Watch Ada Worship sing, “God So Loved.” Praise God that we can bring everything to the foot of the cross as he waits for us there with open arms.


NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN

Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.

Today’s reading is 1 Thessalonians 1.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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