Great expectations versus reality are at odds. You hope to win the lottery and be rich forever. The statistics say you have one chance out of millions. So, in essence, you are donating your money to the state. But in the meantime, the state has made a truckload of money.
Some people pray like they have one chance for God to answer their prayer. They expect God to give them the jackpot and jump to answer their prayer. Meanwhile, their daily lives lack evidence of any godly meaning.
Please note that I am not saying you must walk on water to get your prayers answered. Unanswered prayers happen. They happen to everybody. God promised Abraham that his descendants would occupy the land we now call Israel. Abraham was 75 years old when God made this commitment (Genesis 12:4). After twenty-five years of prayer, Isaac was born (Genesis 21:5). It took a “lifetime” for God to fulfill His promise. God answered Abraham, but on God’s timetable.
Moses, the most significant leader of Israel, had unanswered requests. The prophet, who spent 40 days with the Lord, wanted to see God. God replied, “I’ll show you mercy and kindness,” and I’ll do that for anyone I choose. But to see my face, the answer is no. (Genesis 33:18-20).
The apostle Paul asked the Lord to remove his suffering or, as the King James Bible says, “his thorn in the flesh.” God answered, “My kindness is all you need” (II Corinthians 12:8,9). We need to remind ourselves God used Paul to write more of the New Testament than any other individual.
The fact is, God doesn’t need our strength or resources. Almighty God desires our hearts and our fellowship. Like any parent, God wants a tender heart willing to comply. Riches and personal charisma are spiritual hindrances at times. Tenderness and obedience will enrich your earthly time and reward you for all eternity.
