Old Faithful

Recently while researching faithfulness, I stumbled onto information about the geysers that have been given the name "Old Faithful." The most famous of the three which bear that name, was first given that title in 1870. It is recorded that its eruptions, at regular intervals, lasted 15 or 20 minutes. Although given the name "Old Faithful" because of its predictability, time between eruptions can vary between 65 and 91 minutes. It seems that various things can affect the period between eruptions. Over time, the length of intervals has increased — possibly the effect of earthquakes. Rains have also been known to affect the regular intervals of "faithful" eruptions. It is true that this "faithful" geyser, located in Yellowstone National Park, is faithful to spew and spray water sometimes as high as 145 feet into the air. However, "Old Faithful" does not always act according to man's timetable.

Doing this research caused me to be reminded of how we often expect God to respond to our timetable. We sometimes question God's faithfulness to act in response to our requests when answers don't come immediately. We must remember that God's faithfulness, like "Old Faithful," doesn't act according to our time. There are occasions when there are long periods of time between trouble and resolution. As we mature and our faith increases, we begin to realize that God is ever faithful. Even when the time stretches longer as we wait for His answers, our faith increases, knowing that He always answers. Because of the faithfulness of Father God we can be filled with joy and sing of His great love forever.

I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself (Psalm 89:1-2).

If you aren't carrying the song of joy in your heart because of a lack of trust in the faithfulness of our Father, leave a comment or contact us at hopeforlife.org.