Daily PresenceSample

As a kid I used to ask my teacher, “can I use the restroom?” They would promptly reply “I’m sure youcan! Are you asking if youmay?” It used to drive me crazy. I understand the language difference between “can” and “will,” but I still thought the correction was just a way to make me feel silly. Nonetheless, I see the point! The real difference comes down to capability and willingness. I’m capable of many things, but I’m only willing to follow through with my capabilities in certain situations.

Jeremiah 32:26 says, “Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah:“I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” We ask God for our list of requests and when they’re unmet or don’t meet our expectations, we begin to question God’s power. We wonder if Hecanhelp us. But whether or not God chooses to answer our prayers in the way we expect, He is more than capable! As he says, He is the “God of all mankind!” He created the universe and hung the stars. He gives us breath and designed us for His glory. Hecando far more than we can ask.

I imagine His reaction when I request the simplest of things. When I say, “God, can You move in my life in this way?” He’s more concerned with my understanding of His great power than with my seasonal circumstances! Instead of approaching Him by asking if He is capable of answering my prayer, my heart’s posture changes. I begin to ask if it is Hiswillto answer my prayer. That positional change brings me closer to understanding his greatness in my life! I find submission in unmet expectations instead of frustration. I find His will in all things instead of questioning my creator.