The Bible declares “God works all things according to the counsel of His will” (Ephesians 1:11). This means God Almighty has the supreme authority and absolute power over the universe which He created. No one else has that authority.
Recently there was a threat or feeling that Russia would most likely invade the country of Ukraine. Although there were ongoing denials and assurances by Russia that it had no intent in doing so, even in the midst of a massive build up of Russian forces and equipment along its border with Ukraine.
Many of us were earnestly praying that God would not allow an invasion to take place since it would inevitably lead to outright war between both countries. However, on February 23, 2022 the war started when Russian troops began moving closer to the border and into Ukraine.
The question some Christians may be asking is “How can this be? Many of us payed to God to prevent war from taking place; but war started.” Feeling this way may cause us to doubt God and His word. Humanly speaking, we may be tempted to feel disappointed that our prayers were not answered as expected. However, there are several things to consider when it comes to prayer and why God answers the way He chooses.
There is absolutely no doubt God could have prevented war from taking place, because “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). But it seems obvious God chose not to prevent it. And if He did, there are divine reasons for His decision.
One of the important things about prayer is that requests must be made in accordance with God’s divine will and purpose. The model prayer Christ taught His disciples says in part to God: “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10).
We must also keep in mind God is all-knowing (omniscient). This means He has vast and complete knowledge of everything; whereas mortal man was not created with this ability. Therefore, we must completely rely on God, and accept His answers to our prayers. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.”
There have been times when we were grateful to God for not answering our prayers as we expected since the results would have had a negative impact on the subject we prayed about. God will always do everything right and in keeping with his word. The Scripture says, “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” (Genesis 18:25).
Only God knows the end result of the Russian-Ukrainian war. And to be sure, we don’t have to be aware of all details since our faith, hope, and confidence are in the God of the Scriptures.
The Christian’s part is to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). We must give thanks in all circumstances and leave the consequences to God who says, “I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it” (Isaiah 46:11). Unlike man, God is completely reliable.
Since God says it. I believe it. And that settles it. Amen.