The Prodigal's ReturnSample

But If Not

Taylor Harmon

[James 4:2-3 MSG] You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way.

Often as children of God, we find ourselves treating God like we are climbing up on Santa’s lap and sending Him a wish list. We pray for healing, peace, and miracles for others and ourselves. We pray those “foxhole” prayers when we are in trouble and need a way out. How easy it is to pray when we want God to answer our way! I can send up a wish list of things I would love God to do for others and in my own life! I can so quickly and easily think of dozens of things I would like to request. But if not? Our faith lies in what happens when God doesn’t answer our way.

We know that God is omniscient. He knows all, He hears all, He sees all. We cannot possibly think that our human minds can come up with a better answer than God.

It is all too easy for our limited human minds to become angry, sad, disappointed, or upset when we pray for something that God doesn’t answer our way. What do we do when He doesn’t? If we have faith that God is working all things for our good, we have to have peace in knowing that His answer is His will. What do we learn from it? What if the answer is not yet, or just a flat-out no? Do we maintain faith? Do we learn patience? Do we maintain peace? How we respond to God’s will being different from ours tells most about our relationship and trust in Him.

God, help me to remember that Your will is best for my life. Help me to have faith that you will answer my prayers according to that will. Help me find the blessing in every answer You give! Amen.