Q: When you ask God to do something for you, but then nothing happens, does that mean He’s giving you a definite “no,” and you shouldn’t keep bothering Him about it?
A: We should never think that we are “bothering” God when we turn to Him in prayer! God loves us, and just as parents take delight in their child’s first words, so God takes delight in the prayers of His children. Jesus said, “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:11).
Does this mean God never says “no” to our requests? Of course not—and the reason is because He knows far better than we do what is best for us. Often I’ve looked back over some of the prayers I’ve made, in which I was asking God to do something that at the time I thought was best. But later I realized it wasn’t for the best—and I’m thankful God cared enough about me to say “no” (or sometimes “wait”).
Never forget: If God didn’t love us, there wouldn’t be much point in us even praying or asking Him to help us. But He does love us—and the proof is that He sent His only Son into the world to make our salvation possible. And even now Jesus Christ is in Heaven, and “he always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25).
Do you know Christ? Have you committed your life to Him—clearly and definitely? Open your heart and life to Him today—and then thank Him that you can come to Him and seek His perfect will in your prayers.
