Building Permits

Before you start construction of a new home or add on to an existing home, most counties require you to obtain a building permit. The new construction is usually checked out by a building inspector to ensure compliance with building codes.

When we built our detached studio next to our current house, we really wanted a bathroom in this structure. It would be convenient and add value to the renovation—so it made complete sense to us. However, the building code did not permit for any more bathrooms on our property. We knew others in our neighborhood who had ignored the code and renovated their home according to their own plans. We resisted the temptation to do the same.

Prayer—is a lot like getting a building permit. We get ideas for new construction or major renovations to our existing lives. We pray for God’s blessing on these ventures. Sometimes, God allows it—if it meets His code. However, if it is likely to cause structural damage to our lives—He might not permit it.

Sometimes, I ask God’s help with plans that make complete sense to me—but He rejects my requests. I’m tempted to make things happen on my own power. Occasionally, I ignore God’s code and push my own agenda. My short-sighted plans usually bring temporary satisfaction but risk future safety. 

In some parts of the world, it is a common practice to bribe local officials to gain building permits. It is a bad idea to offer bribes so that you can construct whatever you desire, without regard for future safety. Yet, we mimic those around us, thinking this is the only way to get anything done. Similarly, some of us try to ‘bribe’ God into accepting our requests. We offer time, sacrifices, dedicated service, and rote prayers. We mistake God for an unethical, greedy, third-world government official who can be influenced by bribes.

God knows our needs better than we do. So, the best form of prayer is to lay out your desires, plans, uncertainties, and sufferings before God. Let Him inspect it. Wait for His permission. If it is good, then He will grant your request. If it is flawed, then He will bring about the necessary changes. He knows what is best.