“And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods…” (Exodus 32:1)
Moses had been on Mount Sinai for forty days, receiving God’s commandments. But the people grew impatient. Instead of waiting, they took matters into their own hands and created a false god.
This same impatience leads many astray today. People rush ahead of God, force their own plans, and compromise instead of trusting His timing.
Biblical Examples of Rushing Ahead of God
- Abraham & Hagar (Genesis 16:1-4, 21:9-12) – Instead of waiting for God’s promised son, Abraham had a child with Hagar. This led to generational conflict between Ishmael and Isaac’s descendants.
- Saul’s Impatience (1 Samuel 13:8-14) – Saul was supposed to wait for Samuel, but when he grew impatient, he performed the sacrifice himself. This single act of disobedience cost him his kingdom.
- Israel Complaining in the Wilderness (Numbers 21:4-9) – The Israelites became impatient because of food and water. They spoke against God and Moses, bringing judgment of fiery serpents upon themselves.
Dangers of Rushing Ahead of God
- Rushing Leads to Disaster – The Bible says, “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).
- Patience is a Test of Faith – True faith means trusting God’s timing. “That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12).
- Bad Decisions Come from Impatience – Many fall into sin because they refuse to wait. “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7).
- God’s Delays Are Not Denials – Just because God is silent doesn’t mean He isn’t working. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28).
The Israelites couldn’t see what God was doing, so they took control themselves. Many today do the same—forcing relationships, decisions, and ministries instead of trusting God. But His way is always best, even when we can’t see it yet.
