God Speaks to WomenExemplo

WHEN GOD SAYS NO

As Christian believers, we rejoice in knowing all things work together for our good, (Romans 8:28). No matter what we experience in life, we expect to emerge in victory. However, we must prepare for the moment when God says “No” to our wants and expectations.

The Lord God chose Moses to lead His people out of Egyptian captivity and through 40 years of guiding them through the wilderness to the Promise Land (Canaan). However, because of Moses’ disobedience, God denied him entrance into the promise. The Promise Land was Moses’ dream. But despite all his work, sacrifice, and endurance, God told Moses, “No.” Although Moses was no doubt humiliated, ashamed, and disappointed, he shows us how to respond when God tells us, “No.”

Remain obedient. We must continue to submit to God’s will, despite our feelings. Our God is omniscient and Sovereign. He knows what is best for us regardless of our expectations. When we surrender to Christ, we submit our will to His will and purpose because we trust God to bring us to our blessed place in Him.

We should encourage and celebrate others despite our disappointment. Moses followed the instructions of the Lord God and appointed, motivated, and strengthened Joshua to move forward with the people into the Promise Land. Many leaders would have sulked and walked away. Some may have refused to prepare their successor to take their place. But Moses equipped Joshua for his journey.

Finally, we must remember that God’s plan is bigger than ours. Although He cares for us individually, our Heavenly Father sent His Son Jesus to reveal Himself to all of mankind, to die for the sins of the world, and to reconcile to Himself all who accept Christ as their Savior and Lord. No matter how we feel, we must not lose focus on the bigger picture and the greater good that God has for the world.

PRAYER: Lord God, help me to accept when You say no and to be obedient, as I encourage and strengthen others, even when I do not understand what You are doing. Amen.