The Life and Ministry of Jesus
Then Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it that its works are evil. You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.” When He had said these things to them, He remained in Galilee. John 7:6–9
Our Lord’s reply is a key to understanding the passage under consideration because it reveals our Lord’s thoughts. “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right” (v. 6).
Notice carefully the word Jesus used for “time”—a word that here, as often, carries the idea of opportunity. Our Lord meant that the opportune time had not yet come, though that time came shortly afterwards. He was simply saying that the right moment had not arrived. 1
Personal Encouragement
Perhaps you have been praying and believing that God will answer a very important prayer request. But unfortunately, there has been no answer, and so you begin to question your own prayer life. Be careful and be encouraged. Remember, God is always at work and no prayer is ever ignored by Him. Keep praying. Someday you will see the entire picture and proclaim: “God’s timing was perfect, and my waiting was only drawing me closer to Him!”
Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You.” John 17:1
When we have the grace to wait, we will seldom be disappointed.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for always being in control, especially when I am emotionally undone.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1999). John: that you may believe. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
