If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. John 15:7 HCSB

I used to read this verse and think that it meant if I were a good girl and read my Bible, said my prayers and went to church that God would grant me anything I asked for.  What I’ve come to learn is that if I study my Bible and stay in God’s Word that God will take good care of me.  He will work all things out for my good.  What I sometimes struggle to remember is that when God doesn’t give me what I ask for, it’s because he knows something that I don’t. He knows a lot of things that I don’t, but most importantly he knows what my future holds. He knows what I need. He knows what’s best for me.

I had planned a trip last week and was really looking forward to it.  Problems arose with the trip a couple weeks before, but I felt that I really needed this trip.  So, I prayed and prayed and just trusted that God would work it all out.  Well, He didn’t.  It became painfully obvious the day before we were to leave that this trip was not meant to be.  I wasn’t angry or upset, I was simply trusting God.  I know better than to push an issue when God has said no.

God knew that a storm was coming and I needed to be here. God knew that my precious beagle was going to live his last week on earth last week and that I would want to be here with him.

Yes, I will admit that I was a little heart broken over missing my trip, but from past experience, I knew that God had his reason for telling me no.  Over the years, I have learned the true meaning of today’s scripture.

You see, if we stay in God’s word and we are involved in close relationship with Him, then what we want more than anything in our lives is for His will to be done.  We know that His way and His will are what’s best for us.  Even if it means missing a beach trip.  Now, I might also add that it rained the entire week at the beach we planned to visit.  God knew that was going to happen. He knew that we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the beach or the pool with rain and thunderstorms.

I am learning to trust in God even when he says no.  I am learning that if I abide in Him, He’s truly got this.  He’s watching out for me.  This is why when I really want something and don’t get it, I have learned that there is a good reason for it.

When we realize that God is a good, good, loving Father and that everything He does is for our best, it is easier to accept those disappointments like a trip that doesn’t get to happen.  It becomes easier to trust in Him.

Was I brokenhearted that I didn’t get my relaxing beach trip? Yes, I was. But, I was grateful that I didn’t spend all that money to sit in a condo and watch it rain.  I was also very grateful to be here when Buddy needed me.

God knew what I needed better than I did.  He always does. Won’t you trust Him with your life today? If God’s answer to your prayer is no, know that it is for a good reason.  Know that it’s because he is taking good care of you. Won’t you trust Him to do that? Stay in His Word and allow His Word to abide in you and you will have all that you need. And when what you wish for lines up with God’s Will, you will never be disappointed.

Have a great day!