Sometime ago, I heard a young minister speak to his congregation about relating with older ministers. According to him; “I am doing everything possible to connect with these powerful ministers in our country. You will soon see me bring many of them to our church.” He thought he was teaching his congregation about nurturing relationships. But he never understood timing in relationships.
Friend, the subject of timing is a crucial part of relationship success (Ecclesiastes 3:1). A lot of time, people fail in relationships, not because the relationship is wrong, but because the timing is wrong. The right relationship started at the wrong time is not likely to work as it should. Therefore, it is not only important to know who God is joining you to. You should be sure the time is right (1 Chronicles 12:22).
Don’t try to force relationships. One of the marks of fleshy or satanic work is force. When grace is at work, it has an unforced rhythm (Galatians 2:9). Don’t be like that young pastor who vowed to meet the most powerful ministers in his country. He told his congregation that he would do everything possible to connect. While that may sound like a smart move, it may also land him in trouble (Jeremiah 10:23).
Destiny people are not necessarily smart people. They have only learnt to follow the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14). Will you follow the Holy Spirit in your relationship pursuit, or will you follow the way of the world (Romans 12:2)? While you need to position yourself for the right relationships, know that it is God that connects people. Let Him orchestrate the joining. Don’t force it.
Most of the life-changing relationships you will ever have will be by divine connection, not human arrangement (Psalms 37:23). A lot of times, the relationships that put people in trouble are self-engineered, not divinely orchestrated. Be sure that God is supernaturally connecting your heart with people and follow His timing (1 Samuel 18:1-5). While it is important that you are friendly with people, not everyone is meant to be your friend.
For singles, beyond just hearing God about a brother or sister, wait for His timing (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Some brothers have received rejection because of wrong timing, while some are having issues in their courtship for the same reason. You may think you are ready for the relationship, but is the other person ready? Allow God to prepare people as much as you allow Him to prepare you (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). Timing is important in relationship success. Never forget this!
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria