That one‘s troubles multiply daily and the list of unanswered prayers keeps growing by the minute, are not proof that God is dead–or He is a myth–or He does not care–or He is not listening. If anything, such occurrences could mean God’s timing and your timing are not in sync, or, perhaps you may have been too nonchalant in making your requests. Furthermore, the thorn you seek to remove maybe the link that keeps the chain together. In that case, God grace is sufficient for you.
We know with great certainty both from our own experiences and James’ writing in the book of the same name that the nonchalant prayer requests do not avail much: But, as James rightly puts it: “.. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16). But James did not stop there. In verses 17-18 He called into remembrance Elijah’s petition for drought and rain through fervent prayer.
Less anyone thinks Elijah was some kind of a supernatural being, here is what James says: “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit,” (James 5:16-18).
So, contrary to atheistic thinking, God is alive. He is not a myth. He cares, He listens, and He answers prayers. However, sometimes God’s people have to fight for their blessing like Jacob did. Other times it takes patience and faith like Job’s.
Let's Talk Gospel 
God is absolutely, definitely, very much alive and He proves it every day. Closed eyes and hearts don’t want to see it because then they would have to confront their sins.
LikeLike
Hey Noel,
“The thorn you seek to be removed may be the link that keeps the chain together!” Absolutely brilliant, my dear friend. I love it!!! I have never read that before in my life, never heard it stated, and never thought about it. I promise you this, I will never forget it!!!! You are such a blessing to me and I know God dwells within every fiber of your being. Great one and God Bless, SR
LikeLike
Hello my friend, SR! Thanks a million for your comment. To God be the glory. The Christian journey is part practical and part spiritual. If we take care of the practical aspects, then God we help us with the spiritual. Thanks again, my friend. God blesses. FYI. I have been reading your posts but I code to be quiet.
LikeLike
You “code to be quiet!” And why my friend after all of these years would you do that, pray tell? 🙂 If there is anyone I respect Noel, it is you and you know that. If I agree with what you say or not, I have always respected it and you. That is the point of what we both do. Nothing you can ever say to me will stop that, and I think you know it. What would I have done all of these years without your wisdom and knowledge? You will never know through the last five years how it has helped me keep my sanity. Just to know someone cared and I knew you were praying. So never feel like you have to “code to be quiet.” Got it! 🙂 God Bless, SR
LikeLike
Your heading caught my attention and the story allowed me to read. Thanks for the reminder. vw
LikeLike
Great message, Noel. God bless you for sharing.
LikeLike