The Perfect Answer

Bible Reading: Psalm 66:16-20; Jeremiah 33:3

“I wish my grandpa lived nearby,” said Tariq as he and his friend Mason went to visit Mason’s grandfather. “I wanted Grandpa to move here when Grandma died, but he didn’t.” Tariq had always wondered why God hadn’t answered his prayer.

Mason’s grandpa was working outside when they arrived. He greeted them, then showed them where he was planting watermelon seeds. “You’ll have to come back in the summer to eat some watermelon,” he said.

Just then they heard a door slam. An elderly man who lived next door had come outside. “Get out of here, you nasty critters!” the man hollered at some squirrels in his yard.

“He doesn’t sound very happy,” said Tariq.

Mason’s grandpa shook his head. “That’s Hank Stone. He lives alone and doesn’t have any family nearby. His only grandchild used to visit him, but he died in a car accident last year. I think the only people Hank sees now are a few old timers like me. He misses his relatives–especially his grandson.”

As they walked over to the edge of the lawn, Mr. Stone glared at them. Then his face softened, and he came over and stood in front of Tariq. “I don’t know you,” he said, “but you sure remind me of my grandson.” Tears filled his eyes, and Tariq looked at him uncertainly, not knowing what to say. “My grandson, he–I don’t see him anymore,” the old man said.

Tariq gave him a hesitant smile. “I live a couple blocks away–maybe I could come visit you sometimes. I could bring some of my mom’s cookies.” A smile spread across Mr. Stone’s face.

When Tariq arrived home, he told his mom about Mr. Stone. “Maybe I could adopt him as an extra grandpa since my own grandpa lives so far away.”

Mom smiled at him. “You know, Tariq, I think God may have answered your prayer to have your grandpa live nearby in a special way. Even when He doesn’t give us exactly what we ask for, He still cares for us and provides for us. He cares about Mr. Stone too and knows how hard it is for him not have anybody going to see him.”

Tariq grinned. “But now he has me!”

–Matilda H. Nordtvedt

How About You?Have you been frustrated when you prayed for something but God didn’t answer the way you wanted? God answers prayer, but He answers the way He knows is best–which may not always be the way you want. Keep praying, knowing that He loves you and listens to your prayers. Trust Him to give you the perfect answer, even if it’s not what you expected.

Today’s Key Verse:As for God, His way is perfect. (NKJV) (Psalm 18:30)

Today’s Key Thought:God’s answers to prayer are perfect