Quiet Moments With God - Answered Prayer

Polls say that most Americans pray on a regular basis. If we believe in a God who created the universe and all living creatures with just a word we must also believe that He is wise enough and powerful enough to answer our prayers.

In light of that, what kind of prayers do we offer up? The Lord's Prayer from Matthew 5: 3-10 is a good example to follow and on another post I'd like to have that discussion, but not today. So let's just say for now that we should pray whatever is on our heart. God says we can pray whatever we want, but the results are up to Him.

Do we trust Him? Or are do we demand that He answer the way we expect? And when He doesn't how do we respond? Are we disappointed? That's okay.  Are we frightened? Maybe. We might be angry. God understands. 

My guess is that we've all experienced an assortment of negative feelings to what we see as unanswered prayer. But there are no unanswered prayers. God always answers. He says, "Yes. No. And wait."  

We need to make peace with the truth that His plans are often not the same as ours. And that His answers come from His greater knowledge of circumstances. He knows the whole story. I think scriptures like Matthew 7:9 (You parents - If your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead?) can be taken out of context. And we are convinced that we will get whatever we ask for.

The Lord does not give stones - that is true. He gives us what is best, even when it means we will be disappointed. Did you ever ask your grandparents for something you knew wasn't good for you, like a second dessert? And you were told you could eat all you wanted. Your dad cautioned there could be consequences like a belly ache, but you wanted more so you had more. I've had a few stomach aches in my life because I've overindulged. I should have listened to my Father. I know that is over simplified, but it does make the point. 

Is it possible that we are missing God's answer to a prayer because we haven't considered any other answer than the one we expect? 

All God asks is that we pray in faith, believing in His ability to do what we ask, and yet to trust in His answer. He is the only one who knows the beginning and the end of all things. And He does great things through people of faith with willing hearts.

Is He asking you to trust even though His answer is not what you hoped for? Believe and grab hold of His hand. He'll hold on tight.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie