How often have we heard someone say, “God will give you the desires of your heart?” However, this is often used out of context, so be careful. Of course, God giving us our desires seems great, right? But as with most things, there is a catch. So, where did this idea come from? The verse most often quoted in connection is, “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)
This verse suggests that when we find joy and satisfaction in our relationship with God, align our hearts with His will and purposes, He will grant us the desires of our hearts because they align with His divine plan. That makes sense. However, it’s essential to understand that this doesn’t imply that God will fulfill every fleeting or selfish desire we may have, but rather that He will shape our desires to align with His grand design. God is not a vending machine, nor does He condone sin.
Consider Matthew 7:7-8, which says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Jesus encourages His disciples to seek God and make their requests known to Him persistently, as we should. However, we need not forget God’s wisdom, timing, and desire for our ultimate good. God is a good father and seeks our best in all things. Sometimes He says no, which is an acceptable and loving answer from His hand.
Also, consider Paul’s instruction to the church in Rome. “I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:1–2) So, before asking God to fulfill our deepest heart desire, we should ensure we are loyal worshipers in heart, soul, mind, and strength. For this is the only logical response to His great love.