Word of the Week: Assumptions

On Saturday night, I got on my phone and sent a message to a friend. Within ten minutes, I saw the word “Read” followed by a time in the bottom corner. But after ten minutes there was no response. On Sunday morning, there was no response. On Monday morning, there was still no response. So, at this point I began to wonder, “Did I say something wrong? Is my friend avoiding me?”

When my message was met with silence, I quickly assumed the worst, so I sent a follow up message and right away my friend got back to me. “I’m sorry I didn’t reply! I saw your message and meant to come back to it. I totally forgot!” My friend wasn’t avoiding me. There was more to the story than just my vantage point. All of my fearful assumptions were unfounded.

The whole thing is silly in hindsight, but at the time I was nervous. I care what my friend thinks and I value that relationship. Silence only invites the worst assumptions. As I thought about this, I realized that many of us approach God in the same way. When we don’t see an immediate response to our prayers – or we don’t see the response we expect – we assume the worst. Silence must mean God isn’t listening to me. But what if my assumptions are unfounded? What if there’s more to the story than just our vantage point?

If you’re assuming the worst, take a look at Luke 18:1-8. Jesus tells the parable of a persistent widow making requests from an unrighteous king. Finally, the unrighteous king gives in to her persistence and gives her what she wants. Jesus interprets the parable, saying, “And will God not give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night?” If a wicked king hears persistent requests, how much more will a good God hear our prayers? Brothers and sisters, don’t assume the worst. Our God listens to the prayers of his people.