what it doesn’t say

I’ve got these two quotes from Jesus swimming around in my head today:

“with God all things are possible.”  Matthew 19:26

“Everything is possible for him who believes.”  Mark 9:23

These verses seem to say everything we need to know… Believe in God.  Trust that He will fulfill His promises and answer your prayers.  There’s nothing too hard for God to accomplish. Don’t give up.

Yet, this morning, I became aware of what these verses do not say.

They do not promise quick answers. With God, all things are possible in HIS timing.  When HE knows you are ready.  When HE is satisfied that you have let go of all the things you were clinging to.  When His heart is full because you have learned to trust Him and praise Him while you wait.

These verses do not promise that the results will be exactly what you had in mind. God is the ultimate multi-tasker.  He has multiple agendas… your growth, the salvation of others around you, preparation for future events, the refining of your character. So, the thing you asked for, which is possible with God when you believe, may not come in the package that you imagined. You will get healing, but maybe not the exact kind you initially asked for. You will receive provision, but maybe not the way you anticipated.

The verses above do not guarantee that the road will be easy. All things are possible.  But what will it cost us?  What will we have to lay down at His feet in order to see the fulfillment?  How many people will we see receive their answers before ours is realized?  How many people will criticize you for waiting on Him rather than taking action?

This month, I am watching two amazing journeys come to fruition.  One took 18 months, and the other took 2 years to finally arrive.  It has been a hard road.  I have believed much, and I have doubted much.  I have rejoiced often and grieved just as often.  I have drawn close to the Lord, and yet I have run away over and over again. I have seen provision come to others that haven’t waited as long as me… yet I’ve received so much grace that it doesn’t matter any more.

I’m watching the financial provision roll in.  I’m watching God save my house in a way that I never imagined and I haven’t heard another testimony like it.  I’m waiting for a promised baby boy to arrive any day now.  I know that God’s promises are true.  With God, all things are possible.  Nothing can stop Him.  Not the economy, not the odds, not your hard heart.  He will do what He has promised.

And what He has promised is so much better than anything you can imagine.  Just believe.