“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them (directly) though that way was shorter. For God said, ‘If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.'" Exodus 13:17

1.    God uses delays to prepare us. Israelites not prepared for war.

2.    God uses delays to test us

"...God led you through the wilderness for forty years...testing you to find out how you would respond and if you would obey Him." Deuteronomy 8:2 (LB)

What to Do While Waiting

1. DON'T FEAR

"...They would not enter the land. They said... ‘We are afraid... The people there are stronger and taller than we are..." Deuteronomy 1:26, 28 (GN)

"Fear not, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed. I am your God, I will strengthen you and I will help you...and uphold you..." Isaiah 41:10 (LB)

           Instead: FOCUS ON GOD’S PRESENCE

2. DON'T FRET

"...On the way the people lost their patience and spoke against God and Moses. They complained..." Numbers 21:4-5 (GN)

"Impatience will get you into trouble." Proverbs 19:2 (GN)

"Rest in the Lord; wait patiently for Him to act... Don't fret and worry -- it only leads to harm." Psalm 37:7-8 (LB)

"God has set the right time for everything." Ecclesiastes 3:11 (GN)

           Instead: TRUST GOD’S TIMING

3. DON'T FAINT    

"All the Israelites grumbled against Moses... ‘If only we had died in Egypt!... We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt.'" Numbers 14:2-4

"Let us never grow tired of doing what's right, for if we do not faint, we'll reap a harvest at the right time." Galatians 6-9 (Mof)

"You need to pray continually and not lose heart." Luke 18:1 (JB)

           Instead: BE PERSISTENT & PRAY

4. DON'T FORGET

"They forgot the many times God showed them his love, and they rebelled...at the Red Sea. But He saved them as He promised... But they quickly forgot again! They wouldn't wait for God to act..." Psalm 106:7-8 (GN), 13 (LB)

"I will bless the Lord and not forget the great things He does for me." 

Psalm 103:2 (LB)

"The Lord is not being slow to carry out his promises...but He is being patient with you...” 2 Peter 3:3-8 (JB)

           Instead: REMEMBER GOD’S PROMISES

"These things won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!" Habakkuk 2:3 (LB)