My middle child and I were doing our home bible study one day, when we touched on the topic of answered and unanswered prayer. I was telling her that we should thank the Lord for both, and she was perplexed to hear that.
Like her, we might also ask ourselves why we should thank God even for the unanswered prayers. They are still “pending” for action right? So why are we thanking God already when He has yet to respond to our request?
Well, if we believe that God is sovereign, all-knowing, and only wants the best for us, then we can trust that He knows what He is doing. If He bluntly said “no” to our request then that means that maybe it is not the solution to our problem, or what we are praying for will not make us a better person. If He says “wait” then most likely we are not yet ready to receive such a blessing. That we need to hone our character more.
“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:11
In the above passage, the Lord tells us that He gives good gifts. And so, if we, His children are asking for something we think we need, God would not give it to us if what we are asking for will do us more harm than good.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
St. Paul the Apostle had always been clear in his teachings that we are to present our requests to God with thanksgiving. That we should not grow tired of praying to God, and declaring our dependence to Him through incessant prayers.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
At the same time, we are also not to get tired of praying for others. Sincere and faith-filled intercessory prayers are effective.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” James 5:16
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Matthew 7:7-11 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Do you still have a long list of unanswered prayers? How do you strengthen yourself as you wait on God for the answer?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for being the Sovereign God that you are. For wanting only what is best for us. Grant us the strength and courage to wait for your response to our prayers my Lord, and accept your will for us with grace and thankfulness. Amen.