Daily Power #318

Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (Acts 3:6)

I’ve heard people say that God often guides by what he provides. Not only is this true, but the rhyme makes it fun to say out loud. But even though God often does open doors of provision to show us the way to go, this isn’t the only way God guides.

I’d argue that God occasionally will also guide by what he withholds. Perhaps there are seasons when God won’t allow us to have what we think we need so we can see his provision or direction in an unexpected way, just as when the crippled man at the gate asked Peter for some money and Peter responded with something else. And at Peter’s word, the man was miraculously healed. If Peter had had what the man wanted, he might not have given the man what he needed.

You might experience something similar in your life. Although you may be convinced with all your heart that you need something from God now, he may withhold it from you. His plan isn’t to torture you, discourage you, or insult you. He may simply be loving you in a way you didn’t expect. Instead of giving you what you want, God may show you what you really need. And when you experience his perfect provision, you may thank him later.

Power Lift

I trust you today, God, to know what’s best for me. I surrender my will to yours. I trust that you love me and want me to grow.