When I was a child, I had a Magic 8 Ball. I’m sure you know what I’m talking about – the toy that looked like a pool ball. You ask it questions, shake it and it gives you an answer. These are some of the responses that could pop up:
- It is certain
- Yes definitely
- Outlook good
- Signs point to yes
- Reply hazy try again
- Ask again later
- Very doubtful
At times when I pray, I find myself asking God questions and expecting the Magic 8 Ball responses. “God, is this the right thing for me?” Shake the ball for an immediate ‘yes, no, or ask again later’ response.
Sometimes His response is a hearty “Yes definitely” and other times it’s “Ask again later.” It’s these “ask again later” responses that require us to develop patience and wait on His response. I find it very hard not to take matters into my own hands at times when I know that God wants me to wait and be patient. No matter what my own wish or desire may be, I have to wait on God’s timing and His blessing. And when I wait, guess what? Every single time, God’s timing and blessings are so much better than anything I could ever have imagined. Every. Single. Time.
This just happened in my personal life regarding a major decision. Two months ago the answer was “Very doubtful.” At that time, I knew this was God’s will and I put it on the back burner and did not give it much more thought ~ even though it was something me and my family really wanted. Just last week, God gave us our wish – in an even better package than we ever imagined. God is that good. I can’t stop praising Him for the wonderful blessings He keeps giving to me. I am so grateful that we did not try to manipulate the situation a couple months ago because we never would have experienced His goodness and love. He wants to bless each one of us ~ we just need to be patient and allow Him to work in our lives. I know it’s easier said but I can tell you how wonderful it is when you let Him work.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Love this! Thanks, Eva!