+DEV+ When the Answer Is "No"

 

Feb 21, 2022 at 1:36 AM CST

Topic: +DEV+  When the Answer Is "No"



When the Answer Is "No"


"During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission."   Hebrews 5:7


Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10


Hebrews records that our perfect, righteous Savior prayed pleadingly. And the answer from His heavenly Father was "No." He was heard but did not get a "Yes." If you've prayed for someone's disease to be healed, for some dear couple to have a baby, for a prodigal child to return to the Lord, but instead wept to see that God's answer simply was "No," then you're familiar with the agony of Jesus' heart. 


"God is not deaf to our cries, pleading, and longing. But, sometimes, for reasons that we may not understand, His good purpose is to say no" (Melissa Kruger, 2018). He has something in mind for us that we cannot yet comprehend. We may not ever grasp it this side of heaven. 


Paul asked repeatedly for a "thorn" in his flesh to be removed, but it never happened. Instead, God reminded Paul that His "grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). 


"Lord Jesus, be our eternal dwelling place and home to our heart when we find no rest, encouragement, or hope. In Christ's name we pray, Amen."


Insight: "The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer." (F.B. Meyer, 1847-1929)




It is our hopes and prayers that these devotions will bring people to Jesus as Savior and have a deeper meaningful relationship with the Lord.


If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.




Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

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Michael D. Inman


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