Did God Reject My Prayer: When God Says No. Намуна

THE “NO” THAT REVEALS

It is hard to see what God is doing when He says no. We are so fixated on the “no” that everything else seems like a blur but God has plans that cannot even be comprehended. We often wonder why God would reject a prayer that makes us happy especially when it aligns with His command for our lives. Hannah is a perfect example of what the word “no” from God can reveal. Hannah waited patiently on God for the blessing of a child but year and year went by and God seemed to be silent concerning her matter. It was so bad that she was made a mockery of but God had plans.

Hannah decided to pour out her heart before the Lord and after years of no, God said yes. God could have answered her prayers long ago; however, the birth of her son Samuel was destined for a specific time and for a specific purpose. You see, Samuel had the names of Kings on his mouth and he could not release them prematurely. In addition, God could not release Samuel until Eli was prepared and trained enough to raise God’s vessel. God did not reject Hannah’s prayer, He was preparing Hannah and the world to receive one who was created by God that would release the oracles of God. The revelation of the future King David was on the lips of Samuel and this was important for the preparation of the coming Messiah, Jesus. Timing was extremely important.

No reveals so much about God. Let’s explore:

1. No Reveals God’s Timing:
   1. God delayed the coming of Samuel because He wanted to reveal to Hannah that He had a better plan for her.
   2. God wanted to show Peninah that He never forgets His beloved.
   3. God wanted Hannah to see the miracle-working power of God in action.
   4. God wanted Eli to prepare Himself to raise and train a Judge and a Prophet of God.
   5. God wanted to prepare the people for the coming kings, specifically David with whom the Messiah would soon come through.
2. No Reveals God’s faithfulness.
   1. God’s “no” reveals his faithfulness in all situations.
   2. He will never give us something that we can not handle or manage.
   3. His “no” is an expression of His love for us.
   4. His no opens our eyes to our need for Him.
   5. His “no” reminds us of His loyalty to prosper us and not to harm us.
3. No Reveals God’s Glory
   1. Through pain and perseverance, Hannah’s faith in God was revealed and strengthened. Her dedication to God remained unwavering, even when she didn’t understand the “no.” Her story encourages us to trust that God is working for our good, even when His answers seem delayed.
   2. Hannah’s story reveals God fulfilling His promises in ways that align with His greater plan. Samuel’s life became a testimony of God’s faithfulness, and his leadership marked a turning point for Israel.

Actions for Growth:

1. Reflect on past “no’s”: journal past moments of when God said no and how he revealed himself.
2. Patience Practice: Focus on developing patience through scripture memorization. Ex: Isaiah 40:31
3. Praise in the Waiting: praise God in expectation, even before you see the outcome.
4. Stay in Community: Surround yourself with a faith-based community that encourages you.