The Made Who Made Me Well
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the full sermon here.
Introduction
Waiting can feel unbearable. Whether you're in line at Disney World or navigating a tough season in life, the question always looms: When will it be my turn? As frustrating as waiting can be, the story of a man in John 5 reminds us of a powerful truth: God’s timing is never late. Let’s explore how we can hold onto hope, deepen our trust, and make the most of our waiting seasons.
1. The Burden of Waiting
The man at the Pool of Bethesda waited 38 years for healing—a staggering length of time. For many of us, waiting is a universal struggle. Whether we’re waiting for a breakthrough, a healing, or an answer to prayer, it’s easy to grow discouraged.
Yet, Jesus asked this man a profound question: “Do you want to get well?” This question forces us to reflect on how we approach our own waiting. Are we clinging to hope, or have we allowed our waiting to diminish our expectations of what God can do?
2. The Pain of Limited Perspective
In his desperation, the man at the pool believed his healing could only come from the water. But Jesus had a different plan. Like the man, we often limit God’s power to our finite understanding.
As theologian John Calvin said, “We limit God’s help to our own ideas and do not dare promise ourselves more than we conceive in our mind.” In our frustration, we might turn to other solutions—distractions, material comforts, or harmful habits—forgetting that God’s ways are beyond what we can imagine.
3. The Power of God’s Timing
When Jesus healed the man, it happened instantly—an instant miracle, 38 years in the making. While the waiting may feel endless, God’s timing is always perfect.
Every day in your waiting is a step closer to God’s appointed moment. And when He moves, He does so in ways that leave no doubt it was Him. Let this truth fuel your faith and keep you pursuing God rather than lesser solutions.
4. From Waiting to Testifying
The once-disabled man declared, “The man who made me well told me to do it.” His waiting turned into a testimony of Jesus’ power and faithfulness.
The same will be true for you. What are you praying for today? Healing, provision, direction? Trust that the prayers you lift today will one day be the testimony you share tomorrow:
I prayed for healing, and now I’m made well.
I prayed for provision, and now I have more than enough.
I prayed for redemption, and now I have a story of God’s grace.
5. Don’t Waste Your Waiting
Waiting doesn’t have to be wasted time. It’s an opportunity to grow closer to God, to strengthen your faith, and to trust Him in deeper ways. Resist the temptation to lower your expectations of God or seek relief elsewhere. Instead, hold tightly to the truth that He’s the on time God.
Conclusion
What’s your story of waiting? Trust that your waiting will one day become a story of God’s power and faithfulness. Keep pursuing Him, keep hoping, and remember: He’s never late.
He’s the on time God.
