Daily Devotions

I draw your attention to the apostle Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12:6-9, “For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
The Father always responds to your petitions. However, His answers don’t always come in the manner you expect or prefer. The apostle Paul understood this. The Lord didn’t remove the thorn as Paul asked. Yet through his time in prayer, Paul received a new understanding of God’s grace and a more profound dependence on His strength.
Likewise, there are times God gets your attention by being silent, answering no, or telling you to wait. During such seasons you are wise to conduct a spiritual self-examination. Are you requesting something for the wrong reasons or that’s outside of His will for you? Have you disobeyed Him in any way?
When God answers your prayers in a manner that’s uncomfortable, it’s because He has something far better for you that He doesn’t want you to miss. So if He doesn’t respond in the way you expect, like Paul, allow Him to redirect your focus to the needful areas of your life – such as building your faith and character. Continue to listen and expect whatever He reveals to bless your soul.
Prayer: “Lord, help me hear You clearly and accept Your answer to me with gratefulness, amen.”