Read: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
In regard to the topic of prayer, James 4:2-3 may not be frequently quoted. James 4:2-3 says, “…you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” For the Christian, there is no such thing as unanswered prayer. God’s answer may be “yes,” “wait,” or “something better.” Even the misguided requests of His children are also not unanswered.
J. Hudson Taylor commented on God’s wise answers to His children’s prayers. He said, “Paul was distressed by a burden which he had not strength to bear, and asked that the burden might be removed. God answered the prayer not by taking it away, but by showing him the power and grace to bear it joyfully. Thus, that which had been the cause of sorrow and regret became the occasion of rejoicing and triumph. And wasn’t this really a better answer to Paul’s prayer than the mere removing of the thorn? The latter course would have left him open to the same trouble when the next distress came; but God’s method at once delivered him from all the oppression of the present and of all future similar trials. God’s answer to Paul is a lesson to all. Let none fear to step out in glad obedience to the Master’s command.”
God may have sent you something similar or entirely different – like more problems. But do not hesitate to pray. Have faith in God. He is a living God. Do not be surprised if God answers in ways you never expect in order to demonstrate to you that His grace is always sufficient for us.
