When We Say, "NOW", He Says "WAIT"

As I was going through some old belongings, I found a paper where I had recorded my prayers and requests during my stay in Olongapo. I read it with great curiosity. Many of the requests have been granted, but some have not. Of the people I prayed for, some are now dead. Some names I do not even recognize. One of the requests that caught my attention was about a sister who wanted to join her family overseas. God answered that prayer 2 years to the day after I started to intercede for her family to be reunited and wrote it in my notebook. I was amazed and thankful for God's way of working.
Sometimes when we pray, we want God to intervene instantly. But sometimes-immediate answers don't come. The difficult circumstances in our lives and the times of waiting for God to act can refine our faith, teach us, and prepare us for future responsibilities God has for us.