"Prayers, Unanswered"

    We will one day thank our Heavenly Father for the prayers He did not answer as much as for those He did.

"Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your own lusts" (James 4:3).

Every loving parent knows the reality of goodness bestowed upon our children by our decision to say no. We've all likely heard the pleadings for things that may shine as beautiful jewels in our children's eyes, but which we know to be dangerous impostors that would bring great harm if provided. Moreover, we've all likely begged God to give, or supply, or solve, or heal, or to show Himself openly strong on our behalf, only to find Heaven seemingly still and unresponsive. The Psalmist wondered and grieved in bewilderment, "Why sleepest Thou, o Lord?" (Psalm 44:23). It feels this way sometimes, although we know that our Lord does not slumber in His loving care for those who trust the Lord Jesus Christ (Psalm 121:4).

Perhaps even now we beseech our Heavenly Father for that which we are certain is in our best interests, and more importantly, would honor Him. We may even quote Scriptural promises to Him that seem to authenticate our requests. Still, no answer. Again, in some cases, perhaps in many, love may be the reason our Lord does not seem to act on our behalf. He sees the clearly the impostors that glimmer like jewels. We don't. Yes, one day we will thank God for unanswered prayers. This day provides a good beginning for such gratitude as we trust our Father's faithful heart when we cannot understand His still hand. Love sometimes best bestows its goodness when it does not bestow that which would fulfill our desires, but which would endanger our well being.

"This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us."

(I John 5:14)

Weekly Memory Verse

The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and of great mercy.

(Psalm 145:8)