When God Says No

Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9

As Gavin’s parents drove into the garage, he went out to meet them. “Is Grandpa okay?” he asked anxiously as they got out of the car.

Dad put his hand on Gavin’s shoulder. “Your grandfather isn’t suffering anymore,” he told him quietly. “He died this afternoon—he’s in heaven now.” Gavin swallowed hard, forcing back tears that choked his throat. He walked away while Dad was still explaining.

In his room, Gavin thought about all the things he and Grandpa had planned to do. “It’s not fair!” he muttered. He looked up as Dad came in. “I don’t get it,” Gavin said. “I prayed all day for Grandpa. God can do anything, can’t He? So why didn’t He heal Grandpa?”

“Sometimes God’s answer to what we ask is no,” Dad said gently. “It was time to let Grandpa go. Jesus wanted him in heaven with Him, and someday we’ll see him again.” Gavin turned away. He wasn’t ready to give up his grandfather.

Dad sat down beside Gavin. “When you ask Mom and me for something we don’t think is good for you, we tell you no,” he said. “You don’t like it when we say no. You might be upset about it—maybe even angry sometimes. But you know we love you and want what’s best for you, right?” Gavin nodded. “We talk about what’s happening and how all of us feel, and we go on loving each other. We’re a family even though we disagree,” continued Dad. “Well, that’s how it is with God too. When we don’t get what we ask Him for, we’re unhappy and sometimes angry. It’s okay to tell Him how we feel, but we need to remember God loves us so much He sent His Son to die for us. He wants what’s best for us—and for Grandpa.”

“But I’m going to miss Grandpa so bad,” Gavin said, resting his face against his dad’s shoulder.

“Hey, it’s okay to cry,” Dad said. “We can cry together. I’m going to miss Grandpa like crazy too.” Gavin slipped his arm around his dad and hung on tight. “But let’s thank God that Grandpa is with Jesus now,” said Dad, “and let’s trust God even though we’re hurting.” – Janet Boulter

How About You?

Has someone you love died? Is someone sick? Tell Jesus about your hurts and fears. You may not always understand why He allows certain things to happen, but He will always be there with you and help you through times of pain and sorrow. Remember that He is good. He loves and cares for you, even when you don’t understand.

Today’s Key Verse:
Isaiah 55:9 As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways.

Today’s Key Thought:

Trust Jesus when you’re hurting