As I began my study of the Word this morning I came across a great verse in Acts. Luke, the author of Acts, has a goal of conveying how the Gospel spread throughout the world after Christ ascended. He begins chapter one with the conversation that takes place just before Christ ascends into heaven. In verse 6, the disciples ask Jesus when He will restore the kingdom of Israel and Christ gives an amazing response which I really needed this morning.
Acts 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
What a powerful reminder of who is in control. The disciples, I can imagine, have many questions for Jesus after He has risen from the dead. But it is as if Christ is reminding them that although they may never understand how or why these situations were brought into their life they must simply trust that God’s plans are always best, though often different than our own.
Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isn’t it is so easy for us to get caught up with our goals, timing and plans that we forget God is the one with the master plan that WILL glorify Him and work out for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).
The very next verse in Acts 1 puts it all in perspective.
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
You see, the disciples didn’t need to know God’s timetable. Honestly, they probably wouldn’t have understood it if He told them. But Christ lovingly reminds them of their place and more importantly their calling.
Today I needed the reminder that I am not called to understand everything allowed into my life. I may not see God’s hand working behind the scenes. I am, however, called to simply trust that my Father, the God of the universe, is working everything for my good and His glory!