When God says No

Practical Messages for Impractical Times

Be still and know that I am God… Psalm 46:10

Since childhood, nothing has made me happier than to obtain what I desired. However, I now realize instant gratification has many drawbacks that lead to negative consequences. Lack of self-control is the gateway to selfishness and greed. Soon the seed of undesirable behaviors grow and funds rapidly deplete. Most purchases driven by impulsive behaviors serve only as trophies and become part of a collection easily forgotten. What about unaccounted expenses such as eating out every day which literally has nothing tangible to show for what was spent?

Some time ago I read that Believers should always pray before making purchases. Imagine my surprise when I saw a middle-aged woman shopping in the next aisle of the thrift store with a brand new travel bag in her hand. She carefully examined the beautiful bag and then she bowed her head and begin to pray. After she finished praying, she placed the bag on the rack and left. Immediately, I picked up the bag priced at $42 and purchased it for $5. My thoughts were that she was unaware that all of the handbags were $5 regardless of the tagged original price. I left feeling very proud of myself that I found such a great bargain.

You may agree that I received a blessing for only $5. The truth is that the bag has only been used once, and I do not even remember how it looks. I am sharing my testimony regarding decisions based on desire. I still struggle with instant gratification. However, I pray before making all purchases; and I wait for the Holy Spirit to guide me before spending the resources that God has blessed me with. The good news is that I am learning to accept God’s answer of “No or Not Now.” I possess more self-control which has led to weight loss and a small savings account.

God has proven to me that stopping and listening for His guidance and being obedient has many wonderful blessings that feel better than instant gratification.

Prayer for Today: Dear God, Please give me the desire for your guidance in all aspects of my life. Amen

Sonya Johnson Ruiz