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Prior to our arrival at Disney’s Polynesian Resort last week, I had requested a certain area of the resort to be close to some certain amenities I thought were desirable. Upon check-in, I learned we had been assigned the direct opposite of what I had requested. Now, it was simply a request, but a little part of me was disappointed. Isn’t that the natural response to not getting what you want?

We proceeded to the building where our room was located and I discovered two things:

1. Due to changes in refurbishment schedule that I had seen while planning the trip, the area I had originally requested was under heavy construction. Even if they could have put us in that area, we most certainly would have been disturbed by the noise.

2. The room that we were assigned had a perfect view of the monorails as they whizzed by. This proved to be the very thing that my kiddos wanted. I can’t tell you how many times Olivia (our two year old) simply sat and watched the monorails with a huge smile on her face.

I thought I wanted something else, but what I was given could not have been more perfect. So many times, we ask God for what we think we need only to be disappointed when something else comes our way. We may think it important to get a better job, or have an easier path in life. For many years when I was younger, I wanted arms. I thought they would make life easier, and that’s what I prayed for.

But God knew that arms are not what I need.

I need patience.
I need grace.
I need love.

And, to put it bluntly, I need to glorify God. If arms were needed to accomplish that goal, I would have received them in the first place.

So, I no longer pray for arms. Rather, I pray for opportunities to use my lack of arms in His name. And…that’s what I need.