We know that God answers prayer. We know that he is near to those who call on him in truth (Psalm 145:18). We know that he hears us when we ask things according to his will (1 John 5:14). We know that when we draw near to him he draws near to us as well (James 4:8). We know that at his throne he dispenses grace and mercy (Hebrews 4:16).

So why isn’t he responding!

Maybe you’ve been praying for something and are frustrated. Maybe you’ve been praying for years. Maybe you’ve been hitting your head against the proverbial wall. Maybe…

Nothing.
Seems.
To.
Be.
Happening.

In the 19th century, the great preacher Charles Spurgeon had a helpful reminder which continues to be insightful: “God’s delays are not denials.”

God is a master planner. He is dealing with timelines and moving parts which are simply beyond our ability to comprehend. Romans 8:28 famously reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” So yes, he is working. And not only is he working in a general sense, but he is working for your good!

I remember watching an old T.V. show. It was one of the characters’ birthdays. Nothing seemed to be going right. No one seemed to notice or pay attention. But lo and behold, at the end of the day they had all come together for a secret birthday party. Surprise!

I’m not suggesting that God is holding back blessings just to see your face after you’ve had to wait. I’m simply saying that God is working for your good even when you can’t make sense of the things around you.

As Paul instructed in Romans 12:12: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

God’s delays are not denials.

Notes:
-Bible quotes are from the NIV.