While standing in line at the grocery store, I watched as a young mom wrested with her toddler. The child was standing, arms folded, lip pouched out and being very vocal about his displeasure with his mom’s life choices for him.
He wanted candy, she didn’t think that wise. As a final voice of protest, the child declared, “I don’t like you! You don’t do what I tell you to do!”
It was easy for me to watch this life drama and understand the wisdom of the parent and the foolishness of the child. However, I’m reminded how often I want what I want and I want it NOW! As an adult, I can even take measures to get what I want, even though God tells me some things just aren’t wise——.
When we ask God for something, we often quote the ‘back up scriptures’ to prove we have a right to get what we ask for. It is always good to know there is scriptural foundation for the things we want! But, we must remember that God sees the big picture, not just the moment we are living in right now.
What we see as a problem, God may see as an opportunity or a moment to show us what our own heart looks like. Our heart’s desire should be to become what it is that God has intended for us to be; not to have what we think is right. God rarely works in moments, He works through life times. It is we who struggle with the moments.
The next time we don’t see our prayers being answered right NOW, we should trust God works everything for our good; according to HIS purpose and plan. (Romans 8:28)
Some Psychologists may see this “oh well” attitude as ‘sour grapes’. But, according to the scripture, it’s acknowledging the sovereignty of God.
Isaiah 46:9-11 “Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure” . . . Indeed I have spoken it; I will also bring it to pass. I have purposed it; I will also do it.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, please help me to want what you want for my life. Show me the direction to take, the things I must do. I want to be obedient. I love you. Amen.
Scripture Reference:
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,[a] for those who are called according to his purpose.