Philippians 2:27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.

This verse pretty well disposes of those who claim that prayer should be something like a vending machine, that if you have the right amount of faith you always get the desired result. An incorrect reading of passages like Matthew 17:20 and 21:21 could give that impression, but it’s always more nuanced than that. For one thing, we aren’t designed to live forever in these bodies! For another, not all of the things we pray for are God’s best for us. Paul was certainly a man of faith, and even “extraordinary miracles” (Acts 19:11) were noted, but here he was concerned that a dear fellow-worker would die of disease! This is what faith is all about: trusting God even when it isn’t simple or easy. We’ve got to discard the idea that we can dictate to God, while at the same time knowing that He can and often does respond to His children in ways that the world cannot explain. This way results in much more spiritual growth, and God wants mature children!

This is something I’ve certainly dealt with a great deal. I have seen a few physical miracles, though not many, but I have certainly seen changed people and circumstances, and those are no less miraculous. I have heard my Lord speak to me, occasionally in ways that seemed audible, but frequently in my heart and mind. I have seen Him act when I have spoken His will, and yet I have also seen nothing happen (apparently) when I have prayed. Actually, it’s never true that nothing happens, because the act of prayer changes me, and sometimes that’s the most important outcome. The more I exercise the faith I have been given, the more that faith grows, even when the immediate result isn’t what I was desiring. After all, someone working out in a gym isn’t “doing useful work,” but they are being built up so that when the need comes, they will be able to meet it. I am not to resent the spiritual “crunches” and “dead lifts” God brings my way, but rather rejoice that He cares enough about me to train me for His service.

Father, this is indeed a mystery from the human standpoint, but Your plans are perfect. Help me keep growing in trusting and obeying You, whatever the immediate results seem to be, so that I may indeed be the child and servant that You desire, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!