I keep forgetting that prayer and faith go hand in hand. Therefore, I’m disappointed when God doesn’t give me the answer to a prayer I want, and shocked when he does.
It reminds me of the old story about a country preacher. He was a fine man and loved by all. However, the only advice he ever would give people was, “Pray about it!” One day the preacher’s car wouldn’t start. A passerby saw his predicament and said, “Well, preacher, why don’t you pray about it?” The preacher thought a second and decided to give it a try. He closed the hood of his car, got into the driver’s seat, bowed his head and prayed. Then he pushed the key into the ignition and gave it a tentative turn. Lo and behold, the car started right up. The shocked preacher said, “Well, I’ll be darned!”
Sounds like the preacher had the prayer part down, but lacked some faith.
I guess I’m a little like that preacher. I don’t doubt that God can do whatever he desires, but his desires are not always mine. I waste far too much prayer time trying to persuade God to give me what I want instead of asking God to help me want what he gives. True faith is trusting God to do what he knows is best for me instead of what I want.
The Bible is full of such examples. Christ said, “If it be your will, please remove this cup from me, nevertheless, your will be done.” (Matthew 26:39) Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego said, “We know that the God we serve is able to deliver us, but if he chooses not to, O King, we will not serve your gods!” (Daniel 3:16-18)
These great men had confidence that God would do what was best for them, according to God’s plan. They wanted God to be glorified and not man. How I long for that kind of faith – faith full of trust, belief, and blessed assurance no matter how bleak the outlook.
I don’t mind admitting I’m a whimp when it comes to trials. I’d far rather learn through the mistakes of others, take the easy route, or just be pleasantly surprised when God gives me what I want. However, there is a part of me that yearns to be content whether or not God starts my car. A part of me wants to believe with my whole heart that whatever God does, will be for my best and for his glory. So I’m trying to pray more “Nevertheless your will be done” prayers. I’m trying not to talk God into giving me what I want, but wanting whatever God chooses to give.
