… be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

I know you are completely puzzled by the title I am using today. Did I really mean to say that “sometimes” God answers prayers? Well, let me finish the sentence; you deserve that.

Sometimes God answers prayers by not removing the disappointments we want to pray away. There are days when we just have to turn the news off. The stories are too disappointing, too heart-wrenching to continue watching. What about the pain, the hurt, the sadness people suffer? Does God answer prayer when your heart is breaking?

Believe me; He does indeed answer. God gives us strength to bear the weight of the seemingly unbearable. We live in a very real world. Jesus himself warned us that the world was not our consolation. Jesus spoke to His disciples the words recorded by John. And He speaks them to you and me. Jesus did not sugar coat our futures. Yes, you are anointed. You are favored and highly regarded by the Great God of the universe. Yet, sometimes, He leaves you in rather than taking you out of life’s storms.

I read a story about a father who took his young daughter to the doctor to repair a cut above her eyelid requiring stitches. Choosing not to use an anesthetic, the doctor asked the child “Can you keep from jumping while I fix your eyelid?” The child replied, “I can if Daddy holds my hand.” She went through the entire procedure without flinching.

What will this world hand you today? Will it test your courage, determination, and spirit of endurance. The answer is that you can take anything if your Daddy holds your hand and directs every moment of your life. Just ask Him. Anticipate the greatness and wonder of His care. Leave the rest of your day in His very capable hands.