Does God hear when He says no to our prayers?
In the past, I’ve felt disappointed because my prayers went unanswered, or so I thought. Years of praying for unresolved relational issues made me heavy-hearted. I’d wept and prayed, while the person I prayed for was unchanged. God heard my plea, but apparently, the person I desired to see changed wasn’t listening. I changed when I learned to rely heavily on my Savior’s ability to meet my needs rather than depending on incapable humanity to satisfy my soul.
The Apostle Paul experienced a thorn in the flesh. A messenger of Satan buffeted him. Paul realized this kept him from being exalted due to his abundant revelations, yet he prayed three times for God to remove this obstacle. He received an answer, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9b). Paul accepted God’s no. He was willing to live with this constant poking pain to experience the power of God resting upon him.
My hurtful situation produced spiritual growth that developed faith in my Savior to meet my every need. Paul’s thorn in the flesh continued to buffet him to keep him humble. God proposes to change us as He allows uncomfortable situations in our lives. He may say no to our prayers because His will is to change us, not to make our lives comfortable and easy. Let’s be like Paul and accept God’s answer of no when we pray. Rest assured; God hears.
In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God; he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears. Psalm 18:6
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When God answers “no” it’s hard, but we know the He has the plan for us. I’ve struggled with accepting when “my” plan doesn’t match “His” plan but our loving Father has been patient in teaching me to recognize He is Lord. Thank you, Lisa, for sharing this inspiring message of Paul’s example.
I think we all struggle with “no” even though God’s plan is best. My flesh often pushes me to long for things before God’s timing. Katherine, thanks for you consistent comments.
This is good, Lisa. Sometimes I have to be reminded that He knows what’s best for me. And even though He says no, He may be protecting me from something I cannot see.
Ally, this is exactly right, He see what we don’t. You have much wisdom for a young lady. I love and respect you.
It took me a while to learn that God’s “no” was actually a “yes” to His plan for me. You share an important biblical truth here, Lisa.
Candyce, I’ve aquished too much over the fact that God’s “no” was actually “yes”. I hope to be more submissive and trusting in the future.