God answers prayer because He is gracious. We see that in the accounts of Hannah, Simeon and Elizabeth to name just a few. But what about when the answer is no?
Paul experienced a similar prayer journey as those I mentioned, praying fervently for a “thorn to be removed.” But the answer received was not what he asked for. There are many of ideas about his thorn, but whatever it was, it was painful. It may have been a physical ailment, or some type of emotional or relational pain. Paul felt this thorn hindered him, hindered the work he was doing. He felt it would be best removed – but God said no.
This mysterious struggle had the effect of keeping Paul humble. Though he longed for it to be removed, God told him that His grace was enough to get him through.
But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Grace alone is sufficient for me – with or without being granted what I pray for. Sufficient means enough to meet the needs of a situation.1 That word sounds a little weak to convey the enormity of this truth. God is enough. I don’t need anything else, He fulfills it all completely.
So I pray – because God is gracious. In His grace towards me He may choose to grant my plea in His time. But His grace is so encompassing, that He may choose to say no because He has a better way.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
