There for the Asking

“… for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” Matthew 6:8b

Asking is not always easy. We learn from an early age that asking does not always result in the outcome we had hoped for and we must learn to process the disappointment. We tend to vacillate between two extremes. 1) Don’t Ask: We never ask for anything because we are too fearful to receive a “No.” In not asking, we often miss blessings that we were meant to receive. 2) Always Ask: This individual approaches life in an “Ask everything, what have you got to lose?” fashion. To them, receiving a “No” is not a big deal. They consequently ask repeatedly, without much thought behind their actions and requests. For them the challenge is getting to the “Yes.”

Jesus addresses the issue of asking, waiting, and asking with wrong motives. (1 John 5:14-15). Jesus also addresses the issue of asking in doubt. (James 4:3). The challenge comes when we really evaluate what we are asking for. So often we ask for things that are outside of God’s will and of no eternal value. Knowing what to ask for comes from a place of wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5). It is godly wisdom that helps us know what to ask for, when to ask for it and when to refrain. James qualifies what asking of wisdom looks like, reminding us that it is an exercise of faith. (James 1:6-8). God knows what you need yet if He were to give us everything at once we might never realize how much we need Him. Next time you approach the Lord in prayer why not ask Him for: 1) Wisdom – James 1:5-8. 2) To do Great Works – John 14:12-14. 3) Salvation of all people – John 6:39-40. 4) Servanthood – John 5:19. When you are perplexed by life and don’t know what to ask or pray, trust the One who knows your need, even before you ask.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I ask Your wisdom and discernment that I might please You, in Jesus’ Name, amen.