God doesn’t lead us just to take us through something but allows things to happen to put something within us. Instead of praying to get out of problems or circumstances, be mindful to pray about what God is working into your life through them all. God has not ignored your prayer; He has given an answer and that answer is “learn”, “trust”, “wait”, “endure” or any number of other words that do not often meet our prayers for “deliverance”.

Even with the cross of Christ, Jesus prayed for another way and yet submitted to the Father’s Will (Matthew 26:39). Philippians 2:8 tells us that Jesus became “obedient to death, death of a cross”.  This knowledge reveals that in my own situation, there may be times when I cannot fully comprehend the outcome and would perhaps even be prayerful of other ways and means, yet have to submit to the Fathers will just as Christ did. God desires full identification with Christ, nothing less.

God is not compelled nor under any bond to give us all we want. God’s “yes” answers will lead to an identifiable Christ-within-us-outcome. God could say “yes” to you but to another say “no” for the same prayer request. How is that? God gives certain answers and outcomes that are for each individual alone.  A “yes” for one person and a “no” for another can ultimately lead both to God. Trust His answers to YOU.

George Lockhart is a missionary with Vision 2 Hear and serves on staff at New Vision Church in Fayetteville, GA as the Creative Arts/Mission Pastor.