When God says No

It seemed so perfect, everyone said we were made for the job, but in the end, God had other plans. Initially, it was very painful, but as the years passed by, we realized that God was in control. He had plans for us, even though we had our ideas about what we should be doing. By not getting the position we wanted, we were spared so much pain and God was able to set our family on a course that has been literally life-changing! Looking back, I am so glad that God moved the way He did.

Proverbs 19:21
You can make many plans, but the Lord ’s purpose will prevail. (NLT)

How many times have we seen a situation or prayed for something earnestly, only to have God move in a completely different way? How often do we look back and praise God that those prayers weren't answered the way we initially wanted?

Other times, the reason isn't so clear and we wrestle with disappointment. So, how do you move forward after prayer and believing for so long?

I think the best answer for this dilemma is found in the gospels when Jesus is wrestling with the gravity of what He is about to face on the cross.

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” (Luke 22:42 NLT)

He surrendered Himself completely to do what His Father required of Him.

Our situations, hopes, dreams and prayers certainly don't carry the same repercussions as those of Jesus, but they still need to be surrendered to God and we then need to make the choice to truly trust Him with our future.

Speaking from experience, there is nothing more painful then laying down all your own dreams, desires and hopes and choosing to be okay with whatever the outcome. For me, this is the by core of surrender and letting God do His will. It's a daily (or even hourly) struggle of surrender, but it ultimately brings so much freedom. We say we want to do God's will, but are we really willing to let go of our control in order for His will to be done?

Oh so easy to say, but oh so hard to do!