Advancing Despite Delays Series

ADVANCING DESPITE DELAYS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Habakkuk 2:2-3

Supporting Texts: Psalm 40:1-3, Galatians 6:9, Isaiah 40:31, James 1:4, Romans 8:25

INTRODUCTION:

Delays are one of life’s most painful tests. They try our patience, stretch our faith, and often challenge our understanding of God’s timing. Yet, delays are not denials—they are divine tools that prepare us for the greater glory ahead.

God often uses delays to build our character, deepen our dependence on Him, and align our hearts with His will. In the waiting, strength is renewed, vision is clarified, and purpose is refined. What appears like a setback may actually be a setup for a greater breakthrough.

This teaching will help you navigate life’s delays without losing hope, movement, or vision. You can still advance even while waiting. You are not stuck—you are being prepared for something greater!

1. UNDERSTANDING THE PURPOSE OF DELAYS

Delays are not always caused by the devil; sometimes they are divinely orchestrated by God to develop us.

a) Delays test and prove our faith

James 1:3 says that the testing of our faith produces patience.

b) God uses delays to prepare us for what He has prepared for us

Romans 5:3-4 reveals that tribulations work patience and patience produces experience.

c) Delays help align our will with God’s will

Luke 22:42 shows how Jesus surrendered to God’s timing and plan.

d) In delays, God often reveals hidden things

Jeremiah 33:3 says He will show us great and mighty things we do not know.

Biblical Example: Joseph’s Delay Before His Destiny

Genesis 37–41 – Joseph faced betrayal and prison, but the delay led to his enthronement in Egypt.

2. STAYING PRODUCTIVE WHILE YOU WAIT

Waiting does not mean inactivity. You can make progress internally even when externally nothing seems to change.

a) Keep praying and building intimacy with God

Isaiah 40:31 says those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.

b) Develop your gifts and skills in the waiting season

Proverbs 22:29 says a man diligent in his work shall stand before kings.

c) Serve others while waiting for your own manifestation

Galatians 6:9 reminds us not to be weary in doing good.

d) Protect your attitude during delay

Philippians 2:14 says to do all things without murmuring or complaining.

Biblical Example: David Serving Saul Before His Own Kingship

1 Samuel 16:14-23 – David was anointed but still served in obscurity before he was enthroned.

3. FIGHTING THE SPIRIT OF DISCOURAGEMENT

Discouragement is a major weapon the enemy uses during delays to stop your advancement.

a) Discouragement blinds you to God’s promises

Numbers 13:31-33 – The spies saw themselves as grasshoppers due to discouragement.

b) Stay in the Word to renew your hope

Romans 15:4 tells us that the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement.

c) Surround yourself with faith-filled people

1 Thessalonians 5:11 encourages us to comfort and edify one another.

d) Speak life over your situation, not death

Proverbs 18:21 – Life and death are in the power of the tongue.

Biblical Example: Elijah Rising from Discouragement

1 Kings 19:4-8 – God revived Elijah with food and purpose after he became weary.

4. MAINTAINING YOUR FAITH FOR THE APPOINTED TIME

Your appointed time will come. You must continue to believe even when you can’t see.

a) God does not forget His promises

Hebrews 10:23 says He who promised is faithful.

b) Keep speaking God’s Word over your life

Mark 11:23 – Say to the mountain and do not doubt in your heart.

c) Faith is the bridge between delay and manifestation

Hebrews 11:1 – Faith is the substance of things hoped for.

d) God’s timing is perfect and never late

Ecclesiastes 3:11 – He makes everything beautiful in its time.

Biblical Example: Sarah Receiving Strength to Conceive

Hebrews 11:11 – Sarah judged God faithful and received strength to bear a child.

CONCLUSION:

Delays may slow your pace but they cannot stop your destiny. In every delay is a divine plan, and if you stay aligned with God’s purpose, your manifestation will come at the appointed time. Don’t quit while waiting—your delay is a womb that will birth your testimony.

Be assured that God is working behind the scenes. What you call a delay, Heaven calls preparation. Keep moving, keep believing, and soon, you will see that every moment of waiting was worth it.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me understanding in every delay I face.

2. Father, help me to be productive while I wait for my next level.

3. Every spirit of discouragement, I cast you out in Jesus’ name.

4. I receive grace to wait without murmuring or complaining.

5. O Lord, renew my strength as I wait upon You.

6. Let my character be refined and shaped in this waiting season.

7. Every satanic delay, be broken in the name of Jesus.