The Marshmellow Test

Nearly forty years ago, an experiment was conducted on a group of four-year-olds.  The test was simple.  Each was given a single marshmellow and told they could eat it right away.  However, if they waited twenty minutes, they could have two marshmellows instead. 

The results were fascinating.  Some gobbled the single confection immediately without a second thought.  Others struggled for several minutes before finally succumbing to temptation.  Still others pushed the plate away or even turned their backs on the treat in order to last the full twenty minutes. 

The most interesting part of this experiment, though, was what happened in these kids' lives as they grew.  Those that were able to delay gratification were psychologically better adjusted, more dependable and even scored significantly higher on their SATs. 

Which makes me wonder.... if we can't wait for the little things in life, how will we stand to wait for the stuff that really matters?

For example, I have a friend who absolutely can not wait to open her Christmas presents.  It is such a challenge, in fact, that she pre-opens all of her gifts before Christmas morning every year....then re-wraps them! 

Many others can't stand the thought of waiting nine whole months to be surprised at the gender of their newborn. 

If we can't even wait for these simple little things, how in the world will we be able to wait for the amazing things God has for us? 

Will we wait for Mr. Right, or settle for Mr. Right Now?  Will we grow bitter waiting for healing, or trust that He will heal in His time, in His way?  Will we take the job that somewhat matches our skill set, or wait for the dream job or business that's just around the corner?

Will we accept a counterfeit plan for our lives instead of waiting for the perfect plan that God has for us?

Delayed gratification is never fun.  Sometimes we have to push temptation away or maybe even turn our backs on things that we know deep down are not His best for us. 

Waiting for His timing and His plan, however, works those faith muscles..... and, sometimes, may even result in twice the blessings.