“As for God, his way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”1 

You are probably familiar with the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth found in Luke 1:5-19. Zechariah was a priest, and both he and his wife, Elizabeth, were righteous in the sight of God. The Bible says that they observed all the Lord's commands and decrees blamelessly, so some might question why the Lord hadn’t yet answered their prayer of having children. You see, Elizabeth was unable to have children, and although they had prayed for children, they grew older and accepted the fact that they wouldn’t have children. But God had a plan! He had heard their prayers but was waiting for His perfect timing to answer. God would later use their son, John the Baptist, to have a vibrant ministry and prepare the way for Jesus. They just wanted a baby, but God had bigger plans for them all!  

Today’s verse reminds us that when we take refuge in God, He will protect us. Sometimes this means that we will need to wait to see God’s plan unfold, but we can rest knowing that His way is perfect and flawless. If God answered our prayers how we wanted him to and according to our timeline, we would miss out on the blessings of seeing his plan unfold and all that he teaches us in the process. At times God may not answer our prayers the way we want because he knows it is not what is best for us. Our perspective and understanding are limited, which is why we would be wise to trust our all-knowing God. His ways are good, and his timing is perfect.  

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for answering my prayers. Whether you answer immediately, or I need to wait for the answer, help me trust that your ways are perfect, and your word is flawless. Thank you that your plan is bigger than mine. I ask that you allow me to take refuge in you, trusting that you will protect me and keep me from anything that is not in my best interest. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.