God’s people sometimes pray for things God may not give—a husband, a child, a certain job. Unanswered prayer may leave us disappointed or even depressed. But God may delay or say no to our request because He wants to do something greater for us and the time has not yet come. Years ago, King David wanted to build a Temple so magnificent people around the world would come and worship God in it. But God told Nathan the prophet to tell David no—he had too much violence in his past to qualify as a temple-builder. Rather, tell him, “The LORD declares that he will make a house for you—a dynasty of kings! For when you die and are buried with your ancestors, I will raise up one of your descendants.” “He is the one who will build a house—a temple—for my name.” We know David’s descendant as Jesus Christ. So when God says no to our prayer, it is for our benefit—whether we can discern it or not. It may well be that God is reserving a greater blessing for us just as he did for David. Our task is to accept God’s answer and know He makes all things work together for our good—for those who truly belong to Him.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
