Genesis 8:10-12 He waited seven more days and again sent out the dove
from the ark. When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak
was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the water had receded
from the earth. He waited seven more days and sent the dove out again, but this
time it did not return to him.
God’s timing is everything. Noah and his family had been in the ark
for 150 days after the rain stopped. Seven months later the ark landed on the
top of Mount Ararat. Three months later other mountains became visible. Forty
days later, Noah opened a window and sent out a raven and a dove. Hoping the
would find the earth ready to inhabit once again. Can you imagine the anxiety?
What must Noah have endured with his wife and children possibly insisting NOW
is the right time? Yet, Noah waited on the LORD and His timing. He sent the
dove again and it returned with an olive leaf. This was a symbol of hope that
the time was getting closer. Seven days later, he sent the dove again and it
did not return. “NOW?” Must have been the mantra of the ark family! Yet, Noah waited. Months passed again
until Noah heard God say, “Come out…” Upon leaving the ark, they worshipped.
What are you waiting on from God? Patience is not a virtue we easily aquire. We
may have faith and know full well God will provide or allow the object of our
hopes and dreams, but we want it on our timetable. God’s timing is always
perfect. Wait on Him. When you are frustrated in waiting, think of Noah’s
family confined in the sights, sounds and smells of the ark! Trust God for your
protection during His timetable. Forcing a premature exit from the ark could
have been deadly. Don’t force your own ark opened…wait for God’s timing…even if
it is a little stinky!
Father, I trust You and Your timing. Help me to remember when pressures
seem great and my patience wears thin that You are in control and You are well
aware of all things. I trust You, increase my trust…show me an olive leaf
today! I love You! Amen
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