“And I’ll have rice and beans for the two sides.  No, wait, actually, fried plantains and beans.  That sounds good, “ I said as I fumbled around with my order, glancing at photos on the Colombian restaurant’s menu.  Although he was graciously polite, I recognized the look on the waiter’s face from other cross-cultural interactions – a look that clearly said, “No, actually, that does not sound good.  This beef is meant for rice and rice alone!”  When my plate came out, there was a generous pile of rice, served with a cheery grin.  I’m not sure if I had made an obvious culinary transgression in my order or if it was the waiter’s personal preference, but regardless, I contentedly deferred to the waiter’s judgment.
 
Sometimes I think God hears my prayers similarly to how that waiter heard my order, knowing he’s got something better in store than my suggestions.  We often think we know what we want, but when faced with life’s serious challenges, we realize we don’t actually know what to do.  King Jehoshaphat’s prayer is a beautiful example of humbly turning to the Lord.  He acknowledges God’s might, repeats God’s promises, and simply says of the situation, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you.”  What a striking display of faithful Christian leadership—Jehoshaphat didn’t suggest a solution or timetable to God or jump into taking matters into his own hands, he turned his eyes heavenward and prayed that God’s will would be done.  What an incredible comfort and blessing to take all of our worries in this world to the God who shaped it all, who sees it beyond the boundaries of clocks and calendars, and who seeks to make everything work out for the eternal good of his kingdom.  God had a plan for Jehoshaphat and his people. God had a plan for all people by giving his Son on a cross. God has a plan for you and me.
 
Heartfelt prayer should be my first response to whatever comes my way—before coming up with what I think is the best solution, before jumping in to try to fix it myself, before forgetting my many blessings while pleading for a new one, before letting a heavy heart or a sinking stomach take over.  God promises to hear us as we humbly yet confidently pray, not even knowing what to ask for, but trusting that God knows the solution and it is good.  That choice between two God-pleasing ministry proposals for your congregation, that member who is speaking unkind words about your husband, those new bills that surprised you, that friend who is hurting so deeply, that problem where every conceivable outcome seems bad… We may not know what to do, but our eyes are on God knowing he is unfailingly, unwaveringly gracious and good. 
 

Ask the Lord

Dear Lord, grow within me a faith that leads me ever toward you.  Remind me not to be discouraged when troubles or tough decisions come my way, but to rely on your promises and trust in your goodness. Amen.

 

By Alicia Cortright

Vancouver, BC, Canada