And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. (Luke 2:6) 

 

The label said, “Don’t Open Until Christmas,” but the grandchildren cried, “Hurry up; open it!” 

 

Patience is a virtue, and we recognize the importance of perfect timing. But we often have a hard time waiting. This is especially true when we are hurting and want relief, or we are anticipating something special. 

 

The same holds true in relation to God’s work in our lives. We suffer a loss, wrestle with what seems to be unanswered prayer, or face a spiritual struggle, and soon we cry, “Hurry up, God!” We wonder why God hasn’t acted, and the “delay” often causes us to question God. 

 

Or how about when we reflect on Christ’s second coming? We eagerly long for a world free from sin, Satan defeated, injustices set right, and all things made new. So we cry, “Come, Lord Jesus; come quickly.” 

 

For ages believers waited for the birth of the Savior and won-dered, “How long?” But God was not slow. He had a plan, and in the fullness of time—when the time was ripe—God sent Jesus. 

 

In our lives, as we wait for God’s help or for the second coming, we remember God’s promise that “they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). God might not come when we want, but we can trust him—his timing is perfect. 

 

Lord, we see the present, but you grasp eternity. We view only a part; you understand the whole. Help us to trust your wisdom. Renew us and your world, we pray. Amen. 

 

When I read this devotion I felt it was fitting for today, Christmas Eve. You may be feeling down and discouraged but find hope in knowing you can trust Him and remember, His timing is perfect. We see the present, He sees eternity. Remember this today. 

 

Have a beautiful and uplifting Christmas Eve in The Lord! 

 

Today’s Reading is Luke 2:16-20