Episode 43: It’s Always Too Soon To Settle
Settling is a dangerous consequence that happens when we get tired of waiting. If we’re not careful, we’ll get weary in the waiting and settle for a discount rack dream when Jesus already paid full price for our purpose.
In Genesis 12-17, we follow the story of Abram as he goes from God’s promise to be the father of many nations to the instigator of mistakes that impacted the nations… All of this could have been avoided if he just waited between the time God had given him the promise and the time when it came to pass.
What happens when we don’t wait well?
1. We Settle. In Genesis 15:1-3, we see that God tells Abram to not be afraid. But Abram questions God, wondering why he has no heir from his blood-line. He even mentions making his personal servant, Eliezer, his heir. God promised him a son but because so much time has passed since God first gave him this promise and according to his natural circumstances it doesn’t even seem possible, Abram begins to think of ways to “help” bring about God’s promise.
2. We Strive. As the story continues, both Abram and his wife Sarai, are trying to manipulate God’s promise and make it happen through their own actions because of their impatience. In Genesis 16:1-4 we see a terrible idea take shape. Sarai thinks it’s wise for her husband to sleep with her maid, Hagar, so she’ll conceive a child. Rather than reminding his wife that they should wait on God’s best, he agrees and does what she says! Through this impatience a son, Ishamel, is born, which later will have grave consequences not just for this family, but also for the entire nation Israel. We are still feeling the impact of this decision today.
3. We Doubt. Again, we see God come to Abram (now called Abraham) and remind him about the promise the Lord has given him. We see signs of doubt as Abram falls down and laughs when God tells him this!
As we can see, even Abraham, the father of our faith, struggled with settling as he grew weary while waiting for God’s best. However, we learn that no matter how long a waiting season may be, God always fulfills His promise! After 25 years of waiting, God’s promise to Abraham was fulfilled in his son Isaac and we see their legacy still live on today.
Gutsy Faith Challenge: Ask yourself these questions and don’t be afraid to answer them honestly. It might help you avoid a costly mistake!
Am I settling, or about to settle, for something that may not be God’s best?
Am I striving to make God’s promise happen through my plan rather than God’s plan?
In what ways have I doubted God?
Regardless of what season you may be in and what you’re waiting for, remember, we are cheering you wildly!
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