John 16:26-27 — “In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I will request of the Father on your behalf; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father.”

 

Most people hate the word “No.” When we have a request of someone, we hope the answer will be “Yes.” Being denied is a great disappointment. But sometimes there are good reasons for the rejection. Sometimes a “no” answer leads to something even better.

 

As a teenager I loved camp. At thirteen I started working at a small Christian camp. For six years I spent my summers there before applying for a music position at a larger establishment. Being from a musical family I thought that was where I would best fit. But God had other plans. He said, “No” and instead placed me in the education program teaching the Bible to children.

 

I remember my disappointment over not making the cut for the music staff. But God comforted me with a thought. He was giving me the opportunity to teach children about His love. I worked there for three summers and began a life-long passion of reaching others for Christ.

 

His “No” brought about a huge “Yes” in my life.

 

There was another crucial time that God said “No.” Jesus, God’s Son, was in agony knowing that within hours He would be subjected to death on a Roman cross. While in the Garden of Gethsemane, He pleaded with His Father to spare Him this suffering.

 

The Father’s answer was “No.” Jesus would pay the price for the world’s sin. Because of His obedience those who believe would be spared their deserved penalty and have the right to become God’s children.

 

Jesus explained to His disciples that, because of what He was about to do, they would have the privilege of speaking to God directly. They would not need someone to be their spokesman.

 

Because God said “No” to His only Son, we who believe can receive the biggest “yes” we could ever secure – salvation from our sins, membership in God’s family, and the privilege of bringing our requests directly to our heavenly Father in prayer.

 

Are you a child of God with requests? Then boldly pour out your heart to Him. He loves you and wants to hear your petitions.

 

But while you may hope His answer will always be “Yes,” keep in mind ... when God says “No” it will assuredly lead to something even better than you could imagine. In God’s wisdom a “No” always leads to a resounding “Yes.”

 

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com