more than we can imagine

Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I now put you in charge of Egypt.” Then Pharaoh took off his signet ring and put it on Joseph’s finger.–Genesis 41:41–42

Paul is absolutely correct when he says that God “can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). In contrast, our prayers tend to be weak and insignificant. Joseph didn’t dare to ask for what he finally received. His heart was like a damaged cattail and a smoking wick. His groaning was like smoke that rises straight to heaven. His heart was a real incense burner! The sweet aroma that comes from a humble, groaning heart pleases God. Though Joseph may have felt like he was dying, his groaning didn’t cause any real harm.

Hang on. God will remain faithful. Don’t despair. Cling to the truth the psalmist proclaims: “Wait with hope for the Lord. Be strong, and let your heart be courageous” (Psalm 27:14). The Lord won’t extinguish a smoking wick but instead will make it glow brightly. He won’t break the damaged cattail but instead will strengthen it (Isaiah 42:3).

God wants to give us more than we ask for, not just fulfill our weak prayers. Joseph asked for nothing more than to be rescued, released from prison, and returned to his father. God in heaven let him pray that for a long time. In effect, God was saying, “You don’t realize what you’re asking (Matthew 20:22). I will give you more than you can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). That’s why you have to wait a little longer. I want more of the smoke that rises straight to heaven.” But later, Joseph received what he could never have imagined. He would never have had the confidence or courage to ask for it. We must recognize that God’s wisdom, kindness, mercy, and power are most certainly with us, as they were with Joseph. However, God usually doesn’t give them to us in the way we ask for them.