Waiting on God’s Timing for Relationships
Key Scriptures: Proverbs 3:5–6; Psalm 37:4–5; Philippians 4:6–7; Matthew 6:33
Introduction
Relationships are one of the most powerful and shaping forces in our lives. They can bring great joy or deep pain, depending on how they are entered into. Many of us, if we’re honest, have made relational choices based on feelings, loneliness, or our own plans rather than seeking God’s direction. The result? Wounds, regrets, and missed blessings.
But God’s Word teaches us something far better — to let Him lead, not just in who we are with, but when, and how. This sermon is for anyone who finds themselves drawn to someone but wants to honor God’s timing above their own desires.
Trusting God’s Guidance
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6
Our own understanding is often clouded by emotions and personal longing. We may think, “This person feels right” or “The timing seems perfect.” But God sees the end from the beginning. Trusting Him means surrendering not only the decision but also the desire.
The key is this: God’s guidance often comes not through loud voices or sudden signs, but through peace, alignment with His Word, and the fruit of patience.
Aligning Desires with God’s Will
“Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will act.” — Psalm 37:4–5
When we delight in the Lord first, something powerful happens — our desires begin to align with His will. This doesn’t mean God will give us everything we want, but that He will shape what we want so that it reflects His perfect plan.
If a relationship is truly from God, it will not pull us away from Him, compromise His commands, or require us to manipulate circumstances. Instead, it will grow in His timing, in His way, producing godly fruit.
Seeking Peace and Patience
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6–7
Sometimes we confuse excitement for God’s leading. But Scripture tells us that one sign of His guidance is peace — not the absence of longing, but the absence of anxiety.
If your heart is constantly restless, pressured, or worried about making something happen, that may be a sign that God is still working in the background. Waiting on Him allows Him to shape both people in the relationship so that they can honor Him together.
Putting God First Above All
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33
Whether single, dating, or married, our priority is always the same — to seek God’s kingdom first. Relationships that glorify God begin with individuals who are already walking in obedience to Him.
When we make God our first love, we are far less likely to cling to someone out of need, and far more likely to wait for the person who complements our calling and strengthens our faith.
Application Questions:
- Am I seeking God’s direction daily in prayer about this relationship?
- Does this relationship — even in its early stages — draw me closer to God?
- Am I willing to walk away if God makes it clear that this is not His plan?
- Can I genuinely say, “Your will be done, Lord,” and mean it?
Closing Encouragement
God is never in a hurry, but He is never late. If a relationship is His will, nothing can stop it. If it’s not, nothing you do can make it last in a way that honors Him. The safest place to be is not in someone’s arms — it’s in God’s will.
Prayer
Father, thank You for caring about every detail of our lives, including our relationships. Help us to trust You with our hearts, our timing, and our desires. Teach us to delight in You first, so that any relationship we enter is in line with Your will and plan. Guard us from rushing ahead, and give us peace to wait for Your perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.