In the biblical narrative, the concept of delay often serves a divine purpose, revealing God's sovereignty, wisdom, and timing. Delays in Scripture are not arbitrary but are used by God to fulfill His plans, test faith, develop character, and bring about greater glory.

Divine Timing and Sovereignty

One of the most prominent examples of purposeful delay is found in the account of Lazarus. In John 11:6, Jesus, upon hearing that Lazarus was ill, "stayed where He was for two more days." This delay was intentional, as Jesus later explains to His disciples, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). The delay allowed for a greater miracle—the raising of Lazarus from the dead—demonstrating Jesus' power over life and death and strengthening the faith of those who witnessed it.

Testing and Strengthening Faith

Delays are often used by God to test and strengthen the faith of His people. Abraham and Sarah experienced a significant delay in the fulfillment of God's promise of a son. Despite their advanced age, God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. The delay in the birth of Isaac, as recorded in Genesis 21:1-2, served to deepen Abraham's faith and reliance on God's promises. Hebrews 11:11-12 highlights this faith, stating, "By faith even Sarah herself, when she was barren, received power to conceive a child, even when she was past the age, since she considered Him faithful who had promised."

Character Development

Delays can also be instrumental in developing character and preparing individuals for future responsibilities. Joseph's life is a testament to this. Sold into slavery by his brothers and later imprisoned in Egypt, Joseph experienced years of delay before rising to a position of power. These delays were not without purpose; they were used by God to prepare Joseph for his role in saving Egypt and his family from famine. As Joseph later reassures his brothers, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).

Encouragement to Persevere

The New Testament encourages believers to view delays as opportunities for perseverance and growth. James 1:2-4 exhorts, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Delays, therefore, are not to be seen as hindrances but as divine tools for spiritual maturity.

Eschatological Perspective

From an eschatological perspective, the delay in Christ's return is addressed in 2 Peter 3:8-9, which states, "But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." This delay is purposeful, allowing time for more people to come to faith and repentance.

In summary, the purpose of delay in the biblical context is multifaceted, serving to reveal God's glory, test and strengthen faith, develop character, and fulfill divine plans. Through understanding the purpose of delay, believers are encouraged to trust in God's perfect timing and remain steadfast in their faith.