Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4).

Understanding that God’s primary goal for allowing the trials we face is our spiritual transformation helps to explain why God delays his response to some requests. Though we may be interested in a change of circumstances, God is more interested in changing us!

When we want a quick solution, God may be wanting us to grow in patience! When we want a troublesome co-worker removed, God may desire a greater understanding of his heart for them – and us. We want closure for all our problems, but God wants us to learn to trust him in everything!

God never hesitates because he is incapable or unwilling to bless. As Richard Trench once wrote, “Prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance; it is laying hold of his highest willingness.” What is he most willing to do? Make us reflect ever more the heart, the hope, and the eternal joy of Jesus.

As another wrote long ago: “God is perfect love and perfect wisdom. We do not pray in order to change his will, but in order to bring our will in harmony with his.” 

Prayer:
Lord, help me to pray for your will more than mine, so that whether you change my circumstances or me, I will know and reflect more of my Savior. May confidence in your perfect grace for me grant your perfect peace to me.