Daily Devotional – Saturday, November 13, 2021
Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
1 John 5:14 (NKJV)
As a parent, I often disappoint my children when they present some requests to me. I feel disappointed when my answer erodes the excited smiles from the faces because I have declined their appeals.
While I would be happy to buy them that item, or allow them or attend that event with their friends, I know there are risks and dangers involved. I decline because I love them and want to protect them.
In a way, my actions are selfish. I presume that I know what is good for my children. What I allow them to get or experience must be according to my will. I also mind about the impact my decision will have on my reputation as their father.
I find a similar theme in 1 John 5:14, which reads, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” There is profound wisdom in this statement and promise.
God Answers Prayers, But…
These is no doubt that God answers prayers. However, He will answer only those prayers that are according to His will. You can have anything you want as long as your request is in tandem with the will of God.
Therefore, we cannot request for anything that will not please God. In addition, even when we genuinely believe we deserve what we ask for, God can deny our requests if it contradicts His will.
Why does God do this? Because He loves us and knows what is best for us. God also wants His children to be genuinely happy, because they represent Him on earth. In that regard, we can conclude that God is selfish, albeit in a positive manner.
God did not meet many of our desires, even when we believed we were in real need, because our prayers contradicted His will. Perhaps He knew that if He gave us what we needed, we would veer off the path of faith and righteousness.
Every time you submit your requests to God, remember to tell Him, “…not as I will, but as You will.” (Matthew 26:39). With this attitude, you will thank God for unanswered prayer because, had God granted your request, you would not be happy.
Lord Jesus, thank You because You only answer my prayers when they are according to Your will.veer
What are the other reasons God may refuse to answer our prayers? Leave a comment, please.
I think all conditions for God to answer prayer are summarized in this verse
Amen. Thanks you for your response, Erastus. God bless you.
May God bless me according to his will, always.
Amen