Sunday, March 23, 2014


Read: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.                     Jeremiah 29:11


     One of the shortest yet most difficult words in the entire English language is the word no. It’s not because it is difficult to pronounce, but it is difficult to say, and it is equally as difficult to hear. We need to learn how to say “no.” Proverbs 1:10 says, “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.” Say no to temptation! Many people find themselves in over their head because they couldn’t say no to a commitment that someone asked of them when they already had prior obligations. Learn to say no to opportunities that would interfere with plans that have already been made.
     As tough as it is to learn to say no to someone or something, it is even more difficult to learn how to accept the word no. At this point in your life, the most likely place you will hear a “no” is from your parents. God put them in the position they are in to help mould you into what He wants to make of you. When you ask for permission to do something and they say no, it is not because they hate you or they are trying to exercise their power over you. It is because they know you better than anyone else and they love you the most, and they know what is best for you in the long-run. Learn to accept no as an answer. Don’t argue with them and stomp around with a bad attitude until you finally get your way. It is childish and foolish. Although it is disappointing to not be able to go somewhere you wanted to go or do something you wanted to do, you must remember that it is for your good.
     To hear a “no” from your parents or an authority figure is really just a preparation for what you may one day hear from God Himself. God has a plan laid out for your life, and sometimes the thing you request of Him may not fit in with His plan. He may say no to a request to heal a loved one. He may say no to a request for a job promotion. He may say no to a request that He give you a certain girl to be your wife. Whatever the request, God may give you a gentle but firm, “No.” You cannot get angry and give up on Him for keeping your best interest at heart.
     So learn to take no for an answer. It may not always be easy to hear it from your parents, authorities, or even God, but you can be sure it is for your own good. As you respond with a good attitude, God will bless you for it.
 

Quote of the day: “When God gives you a ‘no,’ give Him a ‘thank you.’ He was protecting you from less than His best.”



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