For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

~Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV

Has it happened to you? Were you ever trapped in a disagreement that felt like a bad movie, each sequel being more irritating that the last?

Have you felt like you were having the same argument, but never finding a solution, just a resolution to return to your respective corners? You pout a while, apologize afterwards, and then live peacefully focused on areas of agreement until the same argument rears its head again?

That’s the cycle. Sometimes, time makes the issue less of an issue as wisdom grows, and passion for our rights weans. The opposite is also true. Time can intensify these arguments, leading to bitterness, distance, and broken relationships.

Unfortunately, I know these things because I’ve found myself having a similar ongoing, frustrating conversations with God. I had been praying about something on and off for years. I discerned no answer. At least not the one I wanted. Every few months, I’d throw tantrum and take a break–from Him. In my heart I’d accuse Him of being unfair. What I was praying for I didn’t feel was unreasonable. I’d pout. He’d do what He always does. He’d show me truth.

“You treat me like a genie,” God spoke into my spirit. This helped me to understand that God does not allow Himself to be controlled by the weakness of flesh. Who is truly God in that scenario? In love, He sees what is best. My expectation was that He should follow me. Humbled by my profound pride, I repented, resolved to follow Him, and to not look to lead The Almighty.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

~Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV

Today, I am grateful God does not give me all that I want. Rather, in His love and wisdom, He gives me what I need. When we create distance from the Lord, we only close the gap between us, and the enemy of our souls. Nothing good results. It is human feeling to be discouraged when plans don’t go our way. But be encouraged. If God doesn’t answer the prayers of your best laid plans, that only means He has something better.

Share an experience where God’s “no” was a blessing to you in the long-run.

Father God, You alone are perfectly good, and I trust that You will not withhold good from me. I am grateful that You never change, limit, or lower Your goodness to meet my expectations. You give more. The best. Teach me to live this simple lesson–that You are for me, wise, and good at all times, and that by following You I will prosper in the ways that truly matter.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

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