Have you ever heard someone say, “God answered my prayer,” and it was because that individual got what he or she asked for in prayer? I know I have done that several times in my life, and when those moments have occurred, I have thanked the Lord for a “yes” to that petition in prayer.
But what if a prayer for a specific situation is answered, and it is not in the way we would prefer? What if the answer is “no” or “not yet” based upon the outcome? Would it challenge your faith? Would there still be thanksgiving unto the Lord?
What if God’s Answer Is ‘No’?
I have been challenged by these very questions over the past few years and in understanding the false dichotomy created in thinking that God answers my prayers based upon my personal-desired outcome.
Romans 8:28 has been a great comfort in understanding this very thing, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” God works all things for our good, including the things we do not deem as good.
In facing some trying times in our family personally over the past few years, I reflect on a particular time when I petitioned God for quite a while concerning a loved one’s health.
Even today, I still pray and ask God for physical healing while calling to remembrance Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I understand praying does not guarantee I will get what I have asked God to provide, but I am to trust Him and to rest in His peace.
The Gospel of Matthew reminds us by the words of Jesus Himself that worry is incapable of adding a single hour to the day (Matthew 6:27). We are to cast our cares onto the Lord because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).
I am also reminded of 1 John 5:14,15, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us — whatever we ask — we know that we have what we asked of him.”
Sometimes, we think we know God’s will based on preconceived ideas or past teachings we have heard that perhaps contradict His written Word. We may even confuse our will with His will.
We can desire something so much, and it is not necessarily a wrong desire or a sinful desire, but God being sovereign and omniscient, knows what is best for His children. As difficult as this is to understand, there is an answer to prayer besides “yes.”
The “No” and “Not Yet”
In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul tells of being given a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass him or to torment him. He states that this was given to him in order that he might not become conceited due to revelations given to him (2 Corinthians 12:7-9).
There are varying opinions and thoughts as to what this thorn in the flesh was in the life and ministry of Paul. Some believe it was a physical ailment while others believe it to be a demon or an individual who opposed his ministry.
Regardless, Paul tells the Corinthian church three times he pleaded with the Lord to remove it. The response of Jesus to Paul was, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Paul did not receive a “yes” from the Lord in his prayer and petitioned God concerning his situation or condition. We could say Paul received a “no.”
Trusting in God’s Answer
Yet this same man who by the inspiration and leading of the Holy Spirit wrote the letter to the Romans understood all things, including this thorn in the flesh, worked for the good of those who love God. Paul loved God.
He rested in the Lord’s answer to his pleading and prayer. It was doing much-needed work in him that was ever conforming him into the image of Christ.
I will be truthful in saying I do not enjoy the “no” or the “not yet” to prayers. I would prefer a “yes” every time. But I also understand that even as a natural parent, I cannot give my children everything they desire and want.
There are times I say “no” because it would be to their detriment. There are times I say “no” because it would not be to their benefit.
There are times we must discipline our children and correct them, and although we do not enjoy this aspect of parenting, we know it is necessary. It is ultimately for their good and the good of others so that our children grow into maturity.
This one personal matter in our family has been a “no” or a “not yet,” and we are at peace with that because we trust the Lord. It does not mean prayers are not brought before the Lord for healing still.
It simply means that God is faithful, and the desired outcome has no bearing on His faithfulness. This is working for the good. The Lord knows what we need. At the same time, God has answered other prayers concerning this matter with a “yes.”
He provided a way for excellent medical care speedily and for answers to arising health issues. He gave the doctors wisdom in knowing what treatment to provide. He was merciful when times on this road were trying and serious.
He was gracious through prayers drenched in an ocean of tears and the waves of “what ifs” throwing us onto the shore of life’s futility. He brought us greater dependency upon Him through this trial.
He continued to bring us back to thanksgiving and a humble heart, and this very situation helped in understanding biblical prayer.
I cannot fully convey all the ways God has demonstrated His love, kindness, steadfast love, mercy, and grace in this situation. I can testify of His faithfulness to answer, and the offering of thanksgiving and praise is not to be conditional upon His response to personal request.
What Does This Mean?
If we were to examine our lives as believers in Christ, we would find our relationship with Christ Jesus grows and strengthens the most when we face difficulty and trials.
We cling tighter to Him in those times. We find our resolve in the truth of His Word testifying of Him. We find peace resides in trusting Him, no matter the response.
Be encouraged today by the glorious attributes of Almighty God. He is worthy to be praised. Whatever you may be facing today, cast your cares upon Him. He cares for you. Trust His will.
We are not promised smooth sailing in this life. We are promised eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, and we are not left alone because He does not leave us or forsake us.
We have been given the gift of prayer and permission to come before His throne of grace and to petition Him in times of need. No matter the response, our hope is in Him, and all things work for the good of those who love Him. All things.
For further reading:
Is the Phrase ‘The Promises of God Are Yes and Amen’ Taken Out of Context?
Does God Answer Our Prayers if We Don’t Repent?
Can We Argue with God’s Promises?
What Does it Mean That God Is Able?
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This article is part of our prayer resources meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
Prayers for Healing
Morning Prayers
Prayers for Family
Prayers for Surgery
Prayers for Strength
Night Prayers Before Bed
Prayers for Protection
The Lord's Prayer: Our Father
