It’s an ordinary day. The man knows the success of his day relies on others around him more than what his own hands and feet can do. He can use his voice to passionately plead for help, but physically is unable to do what he desires. People are starting to come to the temple. He hopelessly looks around wondering who will be willing to help him, a lame beggar. He sees two men crossing his path and calls out as maybe they will help. Much to his shock, they stop and engage in conversation with him. But no coins are offered, instead one of the men begins to make a bigger, better offer. It’s connected to the man named Jesus. “How will he help me?” the man thinks.
Has there been a time (or two) in your own life when you ask the Lord for a specific request? Based on your own understanding, you genuinely believe you have the best answer to your problem. Similar to the lame beggar of Acts 3, you know the problem and you know what to ask for. Now, it’s simply time to wait in anticipation for the Lord to say “yes.”
But then, much to your dismay, God’s solution is different from your own. What’s your reaction?
Disappointment? Leaping in joy? Humbleness? The list goes on and on. We can learn so much from simply looking at the beggar’s response.
“But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” And he took him (the lame beggar) by the right hand and raised him up, immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.” Acts 3:6-8 ESV
The man instantly saw Peter’s answer was far better than what his offered solution was. His response is to immediately start praising the Lord. Although there are times God doesn’t answer our requests with a grand miracle, we can always trust He works things for the good for His Kingdom, even if we aren’t able to see that good (Romans 8:28 NIV).
We always get the choice of how we respond when God answers our prayers differently than we hoped. We can choose to leap with joy or choose joy even though it’s not the answer we seek. Today let’s all look to the Lord in anticipation of His answer and be ready to leap in praise to our Heavenly Father.
Becca Parrot: Guest Contributor
