Unanswered Prayer

Tim closed his laptop and wondered what to do next.

He had a degree. Great job experience. Enthusiasm and passion for his work… But the job market was tough in his new hometown, and his savings was running out fast.

“Lord,” he prayed, “please help me find a job. You know my talents, and what I need to help support my family. Please provide.”

He’d been praying this same prayer daily, but no job had come along. Tim knew God’s promises were real, but the disappointment of unanswered prayer was weighing on his mind.

Luke 18:1 says, “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.”

God’s timing is not our timing — even when we are frustrated, even when money is tight and circumstances are strained. 

The Bible promises when we obey the Lord, we can ask for what we need in prayer and God will provide.

God’s answer doesn’t always come immediately. Sometimes it’s completely different than what we expect. The answer might even be a resounding, “No,” and we have to trust God’s plan, even though it doesn’t meet our hopes or expectations.

In Tim’s case, an ideal job in his field was advertised a couple of weeks later. His new work offered exciting challenges, the opportunity to network in his new community, and a Christian leadership team at work. God came through for Tim, big time!

Let’s pray.

Lord, thank you for loving us through our impatience. Your plans for us are good, and your timing is always right. Thank you for hearing our prayers. Amen.