A number of years ago, my wife's mother, in her eighties, was hospitalized for observation for a variety of concerns. While she was there, a retired pastor she was related to, but whom she detested, came to visit her. I heard her say under her breath, "What's that loud-mouth doing here?" However, after some small talk, he offered to pray for her, which was okay for my mother-in law, because then he would leave. The prayer ended something like this: "God, give Joyce a vision of heaven."

The apostle Paul was given just such a vision of heaven:

2 Corinthians 12:3-4 – And I know such a man — whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows — how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. (NKJV)

Ten years later in a seniors' home, Joyce was having an afternoon nap when she suddenly found herself in a beautiful place where everything was clean and white and peaceful. When she awoke, she said that her room looked so filthy compared to what she had just experienced.

Later in the dining room, she shared her experience with the ladies at her table. Joyce said that they looked at her strangely and assumed that she was out of her mind, like some of the other residents. Following her experience, she seemed to lose her fear of dying.

Years later in another facility, she was seen reading her Bible and Christian articles, and enjoying gospel music tapes. She passed away peacefully in her room at the age of 91. The staff said that she always had a lovely smile for everyone.

Our prayers may not come to pass until years later. When we pray for an issue, God may answer "Yes", "No", or "Wait". The onus on us is just to trust a loving God.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for answered prayer, even though it may be done long after we issue it. In Jesus' name, we give thanks. Amen.

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About the author:

Allan Smith <agwsmith6@gmail.com>
Innisfil, Ontario, Canada
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