Have you ever had a prayer request that didn’t turn out the way you had hoped?  If so you’re in good company – that was the experience of the Apostle Paul.  Paul was tormented by a “thorn in the flesh”, a messenger of Satan, and in desperation Paul cried out to the Lord,

Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me.  (2 Corinthians 12:8)

God however, had a better response for Him,

And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.  (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Sometimes God says “yes” to our prayers, sometimes He says “wait” and sometimes He gives a different response.  It’s interesting that Jesus never addressed the topic of unanswered prayer.  God answers our prayers but it may not be the answer you want.  The following is alleged to have been found on a CSA casualty at the Devil’s Den, Gettysburg.

I asked for strength that I might achieve; I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health that I might do greater things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise.

I asked for power that I might have the praise of men; I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life; I was given life that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing that I had asked for, but eveything that I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered; I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

Identification with God is the key to intercession.  I pray that you, like the Apostle Paul, may realize that His grace is sufficient for you in whatever situation you encounter.

Dr. Rick Higgins

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University