James 4:3
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.”
Many of us have been standing in the check-out line at some store when a small child decides to throw a temper tantrum. They want something and their parent says “no” — and the battle begins. It is an embarrassment to the parent and uncomfortable for other people in the store.
We seem to have quite a few “spiritual children” who throw “spiritual tantrums” when God fails to respond in the manner they feel they deserve. Their behavior is just as embarrassing for other Christians as it is for the parent of the child having a temper tantrum in a store.
James makes it very clear in today’s scripture as he explains the reasons we fail to have some of our prayers answered. It is because we want things that will bring us earthly pleasures. There are times when it is far more beneficial for God to say “no” than to say “yes.”
None of us has any idea what tomorrow will bring — but God knows. Not only does God know what lies ahead for us, He also knows how we can fit into His divine plan of action to bring us good and bring glory to His name. The next time you experience a “NO!” from God, examine your motives.
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil