A delay in reaching a decision, or a reluctance to reach a decision, on account of uncertainty, caution or rebellion. Scripture provides examples of individuals who hesitate in the face of divine commands or promises, and indicates its dangers.
Examples of people who hesitated
Lot
But when Lot hesitated, the men grabbed his hand and the hands of his wife and his two daughters. And they led them safely out of the city, because of the LORD’s compassion for them.
Lot's wife
Genesis 19:26 See also Genesis 19:17; Luke 17:32
But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.
Moses
Exodus 3:11, Exodus 3:13, Exodus 4:1, Exodus 4:10, Exodus 4:13, Exodus 6:12
Peter in obeying the Lord
Acts 11:12 See also Acts 10:14–20
The Spirit told me to accompany them without hesitation. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s home.
Other examples
Israel on approaching the promised land: Numbers 13:31–33, Numbers 14:1–4; Judges 6:36–40 Gideon; 1 Kings 18:21 Israel in the time of Elijah; Jeremiah 1:6 Jeremiah
Examples of people who did not hesitate
Caleb
Simon and Andrew
Matthew 4:18–20 parallels Mark 1:16–18, Luke 5:10–11, John 1:40–42
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” And at once they left their nets and followed Him.
Paul
Acts 20:27 See also Acts 20:20
For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God.
Believers should not hesitate to act when they know what is right
They should not hesitate to speak
Jesus Christ commands immediate obedience
Luke 9:62 See also Luke 9:57–60 parallel Matthew 8:19–22
Then Jesus declared, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
God does not hesitate
To bring judgment
Ezekiel 24:14 See also Ezekiel 12:25; Daniel 9:14
I, the LORD, have spoken; the time is coming, and I will act. I will not refrain or show pity, nor will I relent. I will judge you according to your ways and deeds,’ declares the Lord GOD.”
The delay in Jesus Christ's return is not due to hesitation
The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.