Noisy Streets and Answered Prayers

“Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” —Matthew 21:21, 22, NASB

My family lives on a junction of streets that are incredibly noisy. So noisy, in fact, that it is enough to awaken you as early as four o’clock in the morning.

We really struggled to adjust to it when we first moved, but with time, we are beginning to get used to it. One way I am learning to cope amid the rush of traffic and the frantic pace around me is by turning to the Lord. As I lie on my bed, I let my thoughts focus on Him through prayer and meditation. During this time of communion with God, I am learning so many things. I find joy in praying for the people I hear on the streets—those hurrying by and those whose loud arguing fills the air. As the scream of a nearby ambulance announces an incoming hospital emergency, I pray for the safety of those involved and for wisdom to be granted to the healthcare workers. As I talk with God, I sense Him speaking to my heart.

He has answered my prayers many times, and I would like to actually pray on the streets one day. Recently I needed to travel to another state for an important appointment, so I planned to leave early. I reached the bus stop near the junction around six o’clock that morning. Surprisingly no buses stopped. As the minutes dragged on, I became anxious. At seven o’clock I prayed to God, “Lord, please provide a ride for me so I can make it in time for my appointment.” No sooner had I opened my eyes than someone helped me to the next bus stop, where it would be easier for me to catch a ride to my destination. Little did I realize that God had more blessings for me. As I spoke with the driver, I discovered he was headed for the same destination! Oh! How good is our God? He provided a way for me to get to my appointment on time. He literally made a way for me that would take me to the precise spot I needed without having to navigate bus stops and busy streets. When the Bible says we can ask for anything, it is true.

It does not matter if it is a large or small, simple or complex request. God hears and answers the prayers of His children.

Taiwo Adenekan