My kids ask me for stuff. It doesn’t work. I mean, sometimes I do give them what they ask for, sometimes I don’t, but the ‘asking’ is not the key factor in ‘getting’. In fact, sometimes (most times?) I give them what they need without them having to ask. Even give them what they want, without them having to ask.
Jesus told us that our loving Father in heaven knows what we need before we ask, so not to worry. (Mt 6:8) But Jesus also told us to ask the Father for what we need and want – in Jesus’ name – because he cares, and will provide. (John 16:24) Don’t ask? Ask? Yes to both. Because what’s really going on, what really matters, is not in the asking. It’s in the spirit. Jesus told us: ‘God is spirit, and his worshippers must worship in spirit and in truth.’ (John 4:24) God has come to us in person through Jesus Christ, because he loves us. (Mt 1:23) He speaks to us, because he loves us. (John 10:27) He dines with us, because he loves us. (Rev 3:20) When asked what the most important command was, Jesus told us it was to love God with all our heart. (Mt 22:36-40) Life itself, and all relationship within it, is about love, togetherness, and God. When we pray – talking to and listening to God – it is primarily about being with God, and walking with God. In this relationship with God there are things we need, we want, because this life is challenging and dark and competitive. It is OK to ask your Father in heaven for what you need and even want. (John 16:24/Phil 4:6-8) But it is not prayer that is ‘working’ here. Nothing, in fact, is ‘working’ – in the sense of putting something in and getting something out. Rather, in your praying – your sharing and listening – a living and loving relationship with God is ‘at work’. And he hears you. Prayer doesn’t work. Prayer has no power in itself. Relationship with Jesus Christ moves God’s heart, however, in a powerful way. Do you have a relationship with Jesus Christ? ‘And when you pray, do not keep on babbling… for such people think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.’ (Matthew 6:7-8) For more information on having a personal relationship with Jesus, please visit: https://1peter1three.weebly.com/first-steps.html
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AuthorPeter Walker. I hope you enjoy these reflections. Please feel free to comment!:) Archives
February 2024
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