Always On Time

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
and he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.

Psalm 40:1–2 nlt

Pause

I was kindergarten-age when I tried crossing a muddy road. My feet became stuck in the muck, and I yelled for help. I yelled louder upon seeing a concrete truck rumble toward me. A neighbor rushed to my rescue, not a moment too soon.

Sometimes I feel like my child-self, mired in tough circumstances about to get worse. I cry to God for help, and I cry again—louder—if rescue doesn’t come immediately. Patience and panic don’t dwell in the same heart.

I suspect that the psalmist exercised patience because he understood God’s nature. Having a good grasp on God's wisdom, sovereignty, and love enabled him to trust God's timing. He knew God would respond not a moment too soon or too late.

Such is our Rescuer God. Wise. Sovereign. Loving. He hears our cries, and he comes at just the right time.

Ponder

Identify one blessing you’ve received while waiting for God to answer your cries for help.

Pray

Lord, I know you will rescue me. Help me wait patiently.