Hope Deferred

Proverbs 13:12 ESV
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.”

This life seems to have a lot of disappointments in the natural sense. Many get tired of waiting for answers to their prayers. The longer a person goes without seeing their hope realized, the more likely they are to become discouraged. 

I may be simplistic, but I believe all prayers are answered, yes, no, or wait. When I pray, I have no doubt God has heard and sends the answer right away. Sometimes I see the answer fulfilled in a short amount of time and sometimes I see God setting up the answer that says, “wait a minute, I’m working some things out.” Usually getting me straightened out about something in my mind, heart, or spirit or in my life.

Sometimes when I pray, I ask for things that I already know the answer to. So, I am comfortable with no, but no is rarely heard. I like to ask specifically, I judge to see if I am asking according to God’s will or if I’m asking in my will, then I ask.

If I may offer some guidance; are your requests a need or a want? Ask, Believe, and thank God for the answer. By the way, there is no problem with wants if you follow this guideline in Psalms 37:4 Never beg, ask, and then begin a regiment of thanking God for the answer. It may not happen your way or in the time you want it, but I promise God is moving on your behalf.

When the answer comes, and you know it is the answer to your prayers, that fulfilled desire is a beautiful thing. Solomon called it a tree of life. You may call it the favor of God.

Prayer:
Lord, I know You hear me when I call the first time. I know You know my needs and wants. I know You know what is best for me and I trust You completely. Thank You for hearing Your servant, thank you for providing for my needs according to Your riches in Glory. In Your precious name Lord of all, Amen!