“Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

–Matthew 26:39

Many times we question God and we even blame Him whenever something bad happened in our life. Year after year, we pleaded with God to give us things we want in this life. Oftentimes, we never got what we wanted. How is your feeling toward God?

Looking back, I pleaded with God to give me a clear direction. I was in a situation where I need to decide if I will go and work in abroad to be with my boyfriend or stay and wait. I came to a point where I am excited about our plans to be together but deep inside I feel and I know that’s not God’s plan for me. I started making a list of reasons why I should go and it looks promising for me and my family. But then, the truth of God’s Word is so sharp and powerful that cause stirring from within. While still undecided, I started preparing all the needed documents and other preparations.  But there are days when I’m alone, I remember crying to God to help me get my approval and visa without going through “hassles”.  Knowing God’s will in my situation that is contrary to my plans of action, I desperately asked God to orchestrate a situation where I’ve got no option but to stay and wait for God’s plan for me to unfold. To cut it short, after few more months of struggling between following God’s will and my own plans for the future, God answered it by orchestrating a situation where I am no longer happy and excited to go for some work abroad, and be with my boyfriend. I became so restless and my heart and mind was filled with fear and doubts whenever I think of going. I made the decision to stay and obey God’s will. Now I’m relieved and I’m glad that I chose God’s direction for me. My decision to stay changed my life and my family. I found myself doing things and work that I love doing. I was able to rekindle the passion I’ve lost for so many years. I enjoyed caring for my elderly parents, and my niece and nephews. Now, I’m also happy with my new relationship. Looking back, I can see God’s wisdom in not granting my wish. I’ve come away all the better for not having received my greatest desire. Now, my faith is stronger and my love for Jesus is brighter. It wouldn’t be the same had my wish been granted.

Great things can happen when God does not give us what we want. Even the Father did not abide by the pleadings of His Son. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus longed to bypass the cross. He hoped it might be possible for His Father to take Him in another direction. But at the close of His prayer, Jesus knew that His pleading was over. He was heading for Calvary.

You know what happened? Glorious things happened as a result of the Father’s denying the Son His request. For one thing, the salvation of the world hinged on Christ’s obedience to the Father’s will. Thank heaven that the Cross happened.

You may feel bad whenever God says “no” to your wants and wishes. But keep in mind that a lot of good may result in His taking you in another direction.

So, what is it that you want? Popularity or a clean reputation? An agreeable husband, an understanding wife? A bank loan? A thin body? If God does not grant you your wish, please know that He wants to strengthen you as you accept what comes from His hand. Ultimately, that may be the very thing your heart desires most.

There are too many things in this world that we desire and there are bunch of things that we need. Friend, more than anyone else and anything else in this world, you need Jesus. Just between you and God, bow your head right now and pray from your heart. Tell God that you believe in Him and receive Him as your Lord and Savior. He loves you!