In a world of instant everything and wanting our needs met at once, there is hardly room for patience... understanding... grace... forgiveness... etc. It seems that we want everything immediately because it's that important to us. In some cases, when you make a request, the answer is given sooner than later... but that's only sometimes... Who determines whether you get an instant or immediate response to your request? Your circumstances, connections, position, status, etc. all play a part... but most importantly, the answer comes from the One who knows all things. Sometimes, that answer comes immediately but other times it does not. Immediately means: "at once; instantly; without any delay." What do you do when there is a delay to your request? Will you still be gracious, loving, understanding, patient and hold on with a positive attitude?
In the story about the resurrection of Lazarus, Jesus was told that he was sick but he did not immediately respond with "action" or leave from where he was. In John 11:6 the Word of God says: "So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was." While Jesus did not immediately respond and go to where Lazarus was, he still went. "Then after this He said to the disciples, 'Let us go to Judea again.'" (John 11:7) God will always come... it may not be immediately by your standards and expectations... instead, in His time which is always perfect timing when you consider all things that need to align. Don't be afraid of or be frustrated by the delays that come your way. Jesus will come!
The story about Lazarus ends with the answer that Mary and Martha originally requested which was for their brother to live and not die: "Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee." (John 11:21-22) and "Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died." (John 11:32) Notice that Martha never lost hope even though Jesus had delayed His coming. What mattered is that He came and she believed that He would perform a miracle. Jesus answered in the form of a miracle which increased their faith and many others believed in Jesus: "Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come forth!' And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, 'Loose him, and let him go.'" (John 11:43-44) That was all it took and Lazarus lived!
Sometimes your delays are just to build your faith, grow your patience and dependence on God as the only one who can truly fulfill all your needs; and in some instances for other people to glorify God by your testimony. While you are waiting... seek His face... Don't give up hope when answers don't come immediately. Rest in the blessed assurance that He has you in the palms of His hands, watching over you to fulfill His purpose in your life. Be encouraged that the answer, solution, provision, breakthrough, etc. will come... even if it's not immediately... but it will come.
