The Weight of His Delay!
“Listen carefully, the Lord God of hosts is removing from Jerusalem and from Judah Both supply and support, the whole supply of bread And the whole supply of water…” (Isaiah 3:1 AMP)
Chapter three describes God’s judgment on Jerusalem and Judah. It highlights the consequences of their disobedience and sin, including the removal of leaders and the ensuing chaos. Additionally, it focuses on social injustice, the oppression of the vulnerable, and the consequences of pride.
When I read verse one, I thought, “Goodness, isn’t that harsh?” But I quickly reconsidered. I was reminded that God often delays judgment because of His love, mercy, and justice.
Under the Old Covenant, blessings and curses were directly tied to Israel’s faithfulness or unfaithfulness (Deuteronomy 28). This structure served as a reminder of God’s holiness and the seriousness of covenant faithfulness. Beyond this, the covenant brought a holy and perfect God into a relationship with a sinful and imperfect nation. Through this relationship, God demonstrated His proximity, love, and justice by using Israel as a beacon to call more of humanity to Himself.
Today, we live under the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 8:6–13). While God’s judgment is still present, it is often delayed. In His patience, He reveals His desire, as stated in 2 Peter 3:9: “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
So what happens when God is not involved?
To answer this, let’s zoom into the French Revolution—a unique example of what happens when God’s law and order are rejected. As believers know, the seven-day week cycle is rooted in the creation account in Genesis 1–2. During the French Revolution, the government attempted to replace this rhythm with a new 10-day week calendar. The result was chaos. Workers and citizens faced increased stress, exhaustion, and sickness because they were deprived of adequate rest. The experiment failed miserably, leading to widespread hardship and increased death. Why? Because it disregarded the natural rhythm of life established by God.
This example reminds us of a critical truth: God’s laws are designed to preserve life, not take it. His justice ensures the protection of creation and the flourishing of humanity.
What Does This Teach Me as a Believer Today?
Gratitude for His Patience
We all deserve judgment for our sins, but God’s patience allows us time to grow, repent, and draw closer to Him. Ultimately, we deserve death. But Jesus.
Urgency in Sharing the Gospel
As believers, we are responsible for sharing the good news, knowing that God’s delay is an opportunity for others to hear and respond.
Daily Surrender
Even as Christians, God’s patience calls us to continual transformation, not complacency. Each day is an invitation to grow in faith, obedience, and relationship with Him.
Never Finished Challenge
Proximity builds trust, and trust builds understanding. You can’t build trust unless you are close to God. When you approach God's word, ask Him to help you understand Him.
What does today say about God?
If I were God, I would leave. When nobody wants me, I leave. That is why I am not God. Often, I reflect on how the Holy Spirit has helped me stay. And when I stay, others are transformed. God is so gracious to stay, delay, and transform. And He is merciful to use me. What love. What mercy. What grace. Thank you, Jesus.