trbccoffeebreak

“Lift the boy up (Hagar) and take him (Ishmael) by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.” Genesis 21:18 (NIV)

I’ve never forgotten a sermon entitled ‘Don’t Ask God for Something He May Give it to You.’ Seeking God confirms we are in His very capable hands.   Thankfully, He has our best interest in mind even during seasons He seems silent/distant or perhaps purposefully withholding a desire of his child’s heart.   In every situation of our lives He sees… hears… cares….

Eight months ago, our daughter and son-in-law became first time parents.   Our beautiful granddaughter’s birthday was wonderful – full of joy and excitement – a direct result of answered prayer.  Unfortunately, within hours these emotions quickly shifted to survival mode when our daughter experienced unforeseen complications. Over the course of the next few months several surgeries required making some heart-wrenching decisions.   Resigning her job precluded her husband’s job promotion.   This change necessitated a relocation out of town but allowed our daughter to become a ‘stay at home’ mom – her heart’s desire.

One of my favorite stories in God’s word is found in Genesis 21:14-19; the story of Hagar and Ishmael.   God was completely aware Hagar had no control over her circumstances yet through all she endured He saw, heard, and cared for her. Envisioning grand parenting so differently, I found myself reluctant to understand how God was working.  Sadly, the very thing I had fervently prayed for didn’t exactly turn out the way I had anticipated although my heart knew the Lord had seen aching hearts, heard fervent prayers, and cared.   In retrospect, He had given me exactly what I requested in His unique way!

“Please Lord help me to accept answers to my prayers regardless of the outcome.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Coffee Break