Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. Proverbs 19:21 (ESV)
Mary the mother of Jesus was near the end of her pregnancy when her husband Joseph stated, they both had to travel to Bethlehem to register for the census. She like any other woman, who is preparing to give birth, would not choose to make such a journey at that stage of their pregnancy. Mary probably prayed earnestly asking God to have the trip delayed or for her not to have to go at all. But, she likely had the same attitude as she did when the angel gave her the news, that she would be the mother of the Son of God.
Mary may have known about the prophecy regarding the birth of the Savior, that was to take place in Bethlehem however, she more than likely did not know of all plans that were set in motion and awaited their arrival. Some of the universe’s plans were: going to Bethlehem to register for the census, all the inns being full and they were given the stables as an alternative, the star in the sky shining brighter than ever before, the shepherds being told of the Savior’s birth, the Three Wise Men traveling to see this earthly marvel and who started their journeys (separately from their own countries) weeks before to arrive on time, Herod’s pride and jealousy, now at a high point where he would make the fateful decisions that he made. All of the above were plans set in place and were foretold many years before through the prophets.
So, despite Mary’s prayers and desires, God’s plan to announce the birth of His son far exceeded her and Joseph’s temporary discomfort.
As God’s children, we live life to the best of our abilities day by day. We have no way of knowing what the future holds for our lives or the lives of those around us. What we do know is that if we are connected and stay connected to God (the ultimate life source) no matter our future paths, all will work according to His timing and His purpose. I understand this notion can at times be painful to accept due to unforeseen loss. However, even if we do not understand fully now in our present life, we will understand in the eternal life yet to come with God.
So, at times when we pray and feel the requests we make to God are small and of no consequence, pray and ask God anyway as He loves hearing from His children. And if/when those prayers are in His master plans, what you prayed for (and perhaps even more) will be granted to you. But, let us not fail to realize that God looks at the entire plan of life that we do not and cannot see. So if He does not grant our prayers, do not feel God does not hear nor care because He cares and loves us all very much. If we become disappointed or discouraged, may we remember the example of Jesus’s mother Mary, as well as many others throughout the Bible.
“Dear Lord, may we pray to thank you for all you have provided, make our requests known, and ultimately state: may your will be done in our lives now, and always. Amen.”
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com