One of the reasons God is not a Cosmic Vending Machine is because we do not always know the best thing to ask for. We are so limited in our understanding. We have such a hard time understanding today’s circumstances in the context of eternity.
Our asks are usually prescriptive and superficial. We are collecting straw so we can hastily protect ourselves from the circumstances around us. It feels simple, easy. And it seems to work. We have a structure to protect us – quick, easy, comfortable.
But when the real storms come, the torrential temptations like pride, wealth, or tragedy, the structure we’ve created for ourselves cannot stand.
The Lord knows better than we do what is best for us. He does not withhold blessing to punish us. He does not delay to torture us. He is inviting us into the full breadth of relationship with Himself. The kind of intimacy that transcends storms (and circumstances altogether).
The Lord wants more for us. He wants to provide what we need. In fact, he wants to provide what we truly want; not just the superficial, quick-fix version but the real deep value we are striving after.
The foundation of character only comes when we make choices toward obedience. All of life’s circumstances are an invitation to do so.