Yes - No - Wait

Only God can see the future and know the implications of what we desire and ask for in prayer. We can all look back and realize things we once prayed for so fervently and did not receive were some of our greatest blessings.

Trust God to know when He says yes, no, or wait.

WHEN GOD SAYS YES

God says yes to any request that is in accordance with His will. That may sound a little vague and unsatisfying to some of us; however, as we mature in our faith, it becomes much clearer.

His will for our lives is revealed in the many promises found in Scripture. We are to pray with worship and adoration, unselfishly, and with thanksgiving while petitioning God based on His promises. Search and study Scripture to discover God’s promises and the full measure of what He desires for each of us as His children.

“Jesus says yes to all of God’s many promises. It is through Jesus that we say, ‘Let it be so,’ when we give thanks to God. God is the One who makes our faith strong in Christ. He has set us apart for Himself and has put His mark on us to show we belong to Him. His Spirit is in our hearts to prove this.”

— 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20-22

WHEN GOD SAYS NO

God says no if our requests are not Godly requests or if our requests are not good for us or for others. He sees what we cannot. He sees the short-term and long-term implications of our requests. Praise God that He sees and knows and desires what is best for His children! No is sometimes a bitter pill to swallow, but how much more bitter is it to receive what will ultimately lead us to heartbreak and disaster! Be comforted in the knowledge that we learn and grow more from the no’s. Consider a no answer from God as a redirection as opposed to a rejection.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

— PSALM 32:8 ESV

WHEN GOD SAYS WAIT

Living a life of faith means we do not know either the timing or the outcome of our prayers. We are called to remain active in our walks and steadfast in the knowledge of who holds the future as we live fully in the present. God sees above the circumstances of life. His timing is impeccable! Remember the story of Lazarus?

Everyone thought Jesus was four days late responding to the news of Lazarus’ death. Scripture tells us, though, that Jesus was right on time, as He raised Lazarus from the grave, thereby magnifying the power and glory of God! God will allow His children to wait until we are ready and/or until He is ready. In other words, we learn patience and other valuable spiritual lessons while we wait. His glory is put on display as He responds with His perfect answer and His perfect timing. Consider a wait answer from God as a time of preparation, not a time of punishment.

“Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually.”

— HOSEA 12:6 NASB

“Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.”

— PSALM 27:14 NASB

Our God is a prayer-hearing, a prayer-answering, a miracle-worker, He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. We need to praise Him; we can count on His unfailing love and the perfect plans He has laid out for our lives. God alone know what is best for His children.

God Bless, Israel