Week 3 — Wednesday: God Doesn’t Always Give Us What We Want, When We Want It

1 John 5:14-15 

The verses in 1 John 5:14-15 promise that if we ask God for anything according to His will, He hears us. However, it isn’t a carte blanch promise that God will answer our prayers exactly as we have asked. God will answer either “Yes,” “No,” or “Wait.” It is the second two that are not easy for us to accept. 

I remember back when my family was growing and we were looking to buy a bigger house. We found what we thought was the ideal house and began to fervently pray that God would give it to us. We even submitted an offer, but someone else eventually ended up getting the home. I remember my deep sense of disappointment, and I could have easily become angry with God. However, I chose to trust God and His timing. 

Several months later, a new housing development opened up, and we ended up buying the perfect home for our family—one in which we have now lived for 20 years. Looking back, I am so happy that God did not give us that original house! 

There are at least two other major life decisions that I can remember (involving a potential job change and a major purchase) where I am glad that God did not answer my original prayer. In retrospect, God later provided something way better for me because I waited on Him! 

When God’s answer to your prayer is “No” or “Wait,” what is your reaction? Do you become angry and impatient with God, or do you trust in His sovereignty and His perfect plan for you? 

Pray to God, thanking Him for the confidence that He will hear your prayers. Ask Him to give you the faith to trust that He knows, and will always provide, what is best for you.

—CONTRIBUTED BY GORDON CHING—