Behind The Delay

I’m currently sitting at an airport waiting for my flight that has been delayed several times turning it into a red eye. I’m contemplating all the ramifications and inconveniences of the delay as it relates to my plans, my sleep and how it will affect me tomorrow. As much as I hate delays, I’ve learned there’s nothing I can do to change it. I can only control how I respond to my timetable and plans being disrupted. I’ve also learned that many times God is involved in the delay for one reason or another. Most of the time, I never get to see the reason for the delay, but sometimes He pulls back the curtain and reminds me that He’s in control and had my best interests at heart. He also reminds me that there is more going on than we can see.

In Daniel 10, he had been praying for understanding and clarity regarding the future. He had been in a time of mourning and fasting with no answer for three weeks. It was then that an angel appeared, pulled back the curtain and let him know what was going on behind the scenes. The angel said, “Daniel, don’t be afraid. God has heard your prayers ever since the first day you decided to humble yourself in order to gain understanding. I have come in answer to your prayer” (GNT). He then explained what was going on in the unseen that caused the delay in the answer. He had been fighting principalities in the heavenlies to bring him an answer, and he would have to go back to fighting. He showed Daniel that sometimes delays are caused by our enemy opposing the answer God is sending.

When I’m faced with delays, or when I’m waiting on God to answer, I remember the words of Psalm 27:14. It says, “Wait for and confidently expect the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for and confidently expect the Lord” (AMP). It’s not easy, but keep waiting and trusting during the delay. What the angel said to Daniel is true for you. He loves you, your prayers have been heard and help is on the way. Don’t stop praying. Don’t stop trusting. Confidently expect the Lord to do what only He can do. Your delay is temporary. Your timetable may be disrupted, but God is on the move. Your breakthrough is coming. It’s just being fought for in places you can’t see.

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