Proverbs 16:1-3
How many times have you prayed for something and not gotten it? Or not gotten it quickly? Doesn't the Bible tell us that we should "Ask and it shall be given to you?" But, how many times have you prayed and prayed and still gotten no answer?
When John and I decided we wanted to have a family we thought it was that easy...we prayed for over 900 days for a child before we were blessed with MP.
Years ago, We had prayed for years for a promotion for me and were answered with a rejection. Easy to say 700 days of prayer went into that request.
So now, as I look back it is much easier to see the "Why?" in God's plan. Many of my prayers I know I won't understand God's response until I get to Heaven, but some He has shown me glimpses of the "Why?"
With the baby prayer, why did it take so long? In that time I was able to work hard at my job, learn and prepare for a new role. I was able to serve as President of Junior League which was a huge blessing that I could not have done with a new baby. It was one of the first times when John and I were both seeking the spirit like never before and I know we needed that time to grow in Him before we were blessed with a child. But, for 900 days we were told No. 900 days to be told No wasn't easy. But, in God's time it was perfect. Many days we both wanted to give in and stop praying. But looking back His timing couldn't have been better.
With the job news, we found out only two short months later that mom was sick. So sick that we weren't sure how long she would be with us. With a new baby and that stress....think of how I would've been pulled in a million directions if I had gotten that job. The job that would require more travel, more work. I needed to be home with my baby and my mom. I was able to work from my laptop at the hospital many days as we worked to help mom. The Lord knew that it wasn't time to add more stress. But, in my little view I thought it was.
It is always easier to look back. But for those of you who may be on day 899 of a prayer that hasn't been answered, keep praying! I can count many days when I was angry, disappointed, sad, exhausted and wanted to stop praying. I believe it is how we as believers respond on day 899 that sets us apart. We must keep the faith. We must keep praying. We must commit our path to Him.
It was once explained to me how small our view is compared to His. God may be preparing you for something you have no idea about. He knows what is best for you! That isn't always easy on those days when you've prayed so long and haven't heard the answer. Keep praying! Don't rush it...He is the master architect when it comes to our lives. We see this tiny spot, yet he sees how it is all woven together. It is exciting to me as my prayer list continues to have a few unanswered items...what will be next because I know the timing will be PERFECT!
Proverbs 16:1-3 says, "To humans belong the plans of the heart,
but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person's ways seem pure to them,but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. "
