Why does God make us wait for answers to our prayers?

Waiting for answers to our prayers can be one of the most challenging aspects of the Christian life. It often tests our faith, patience, and understanding of God's will. However, this waiting period is not without purpose or meaning. From a non-denominational Christian perspective, there are several reasons why God might make us wait for answers to our prayers, each deeply rooted in biblical teachings and the nature of our relationship with Him.

Firstly, waiting builds our faith and trust in God. In the book of James, we are reminded that the testing of our faith produces perseverance (James 1:3). When we pray and do not receive an immediate answer, it forces us to rely more deeply on God's timing and wisdom rather than our own understanding. This process strengthens our faith, teaching us to trust in God's plan even when it is not immediately visible. The story of Abraham and Sarah is a prime example. They waited many years for the fulfillment of God's promise to give them a son. During this time, their faith was tested, but ultimately, their trust in God grew stronger (Genesis 15-21).

Moreover, waiting refines our character and spiritual maturity. Romans 5:3-4 tells us that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. When we are in a season of waiting, it often comes with challenges and discomfort. These experiences can be transformative, molding us into the people God intends us to be. It is through these trials that we learn patience, humility, and dependence on God. The process of waiting can strip away our self-reliance and pride, drawing us closer to the heart of God.

Another reason God may delay answering our prayers is to align our desires with His will. Often, our prayers are influenced by our immediate needs and wants, which may not always align with God's greater plan for our lives. In Isaiah 55:8-9, God declares, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways... As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Through waiting, God can transform our hearts and minds, helping us to desire what He desires and to seek His kingdom above all else. This alignment is crucial for our spiritual wellbeing and fulfillment of God's purpose in our lives.

Furthermore, waiting can be a period of preparation. Sometimes, we are not ready to receive what we are asking for. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows what we need and when we need it. He uses the waiting period to prepare us for the blessings or responsibilities that are to come. Consider the life of Joseph. He endured many years of hardship and waiting before he was elevated to a position of great authority in Egypt (Genesis 37-50). During this time, God was preparing Joseph, developing his character and leadership skills, so that he could fulfill his destiny and save many lives.

In addition, waiting can deepen our relationship with God. When we are in a season of waiting, we are often drawn to seek God more earnestly. Our prayers become more fervent, and our dependence on Him grows. This intimacy with God is invaluable. Psalm 27:14 encourages us, "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." This waiting period can be a time of profound spiritual growth, where we learn to rest in God's presence and draw strength from Him.

It is also important to recognize that God's delays are not denials. Just because we do not see an immediate answer does not mean that God is not working. In John 11, we read the story of Lazarus. When Jesus was informed that Lazarus was sick, He delayed His visit, and Lazarus died. However, this delay was for a greater purpose – to demonstrate God's glory through the resurrection of Lazarus. Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). Similarly, our waiting may be for a greater purpose that we cannot yet see.

Moreover, God's timing is perfect. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." God's timing is not bound by our understanding of time. He sees the bigger picture and orchestrates everything according to His perfect plan. When we wait for His timing, we can be assured that it is the best timing for us.

Lastly, waiting teaches us to live by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 instructs us, "For we live by faith, not by sight." When we do not see immediate answers to our prayers, it challenges us to rely on our faith in God's promises rather than our circumstances. This faith is the foundation of our relationship with God and is essential for our spiritual wellbeing.

In summary, the waiting period is a crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. It builds our faith and trust in God, refines our character, aligns our desires with His will, prepares us for future blessings, deepens our relationship with Him, and teaches us to live by faith. While waiting can be difficult, it is a time of growth and transformation that ultimately draws us closer to God and His perfect plan for our lives. Let us embrace these seasons of waiting with a heart of patience and trust, knowing that God is working all things for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28).