Different Answers

"... to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." ~ Isaiah 61:3

On Sunday, I stood a few rows behind my oldest daughter in church and just watched her in awe. She was worshiping with her whole heart and I was overcome with so much gratitude and joy.

As the tears started to flow, I was reminded of the many prayers I have poured out over the years on her behalf. Prayers for comfort, for healing, for character and for courage.

What struck me the most was my gratitude for the prayers that God declined to answer in the way I wanted.

So many times I have asked God to give her a different story. It’s been so hard to watch her struggle, deal with grief and loss, and experience rejection. But I’m learning to look for the beauty that comes from the ashes.

I begged God to make things easier for her. Instead he shaped her into a woman of compassion and kindness.

I pleaded with God to help her fit in. Instead she developed a strong sense of self that will serve her well for life.

I wanted relief from her physical struggles. He gave her endurance.

Embracing the story we have to live can be a challenge. But when we lift our eyes we can see the beauty in the midst of the brutal.

Thank you Lord for unanswered prayers. Help me to revel in what is instead of always wishing for what could be.

You know what we need and you are enough!

#unimaginable #heisenough