TIME OF ANSWERED PRAYERS

I recently noticed that the tree in front of our living room is blooming with beautiful white flowers. I have never seen its flowers before. Interestingly I was brought to mind how this tree was pruned, cut down to its bare minimum at a time. It was a very sad scene of barrenness. But I knew one day the tree will grow back branches and in just a few months' time, the branches came out! And now the tree is sprouting flowers! The scene of barrenness has been transformed into fruitfulness and beauty! What a turnaround!

In contrast, the tree beside it, which used to bloom beautiful flowers seemed not to be growing as much. The leaves turned yellow and the tree looked bare. Maybe it is time for this tree to be cut down so that it could be rejuvenated. Oh the wonders of seasons that God has created! This also tells me that sometimes when we are in a barren season, and we are envious of other people enjoying harvest, we have to know they too, went through a time of barrenness. But after that season, they are enjoying their harvest. And those of us who went through a time of wilderness, of being in the fire and water, we can be heartened to know that one day the season will change. And we will surely come into a season of fulfilment and abundance (Psalms 66:12). Well, now is the time!

I was reading Doug Addison's latest prophetic word in Oct and I found his message talking about the same thing too. He said: God spoke to me that many people who have gone through difficult times are going to see a change happen. We are entering into a time of answered prayers. God has heard your cry and this year will bring about the fulfillment of some promises that you may have given up on or forgot. Those of you who have been crying and crying out for change are going to start receiving repayment for all your pain.

“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” Psalm 126:5

There is a time of change here for those who have “sown with tears.” Your turnaround is here as God has heard your cries and is answering your prayers. Your “sowing and weeping” is now turning into “sowing and reaping.” This means that God is repaying your pain! It is a time of restoration, when God is turning our sorrows into joy and ashes into beauty. Psalm 30:5 says 'Weeping lasts for the night but joy comes in the morning.' Joy will always come after a time of sadness. Praise the Lord for the joy of answered prayers!