This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
- 1 John 5:14-15
I am afraid to ask. I didn't realize that about myself and sometimes I forget, but it is without a doubt that there are things that I am hesitant to ask God for, and to pray for, which is silly. Sure, I think it is in everyone's repertoire to pray and ask for the usual: health and wellness of loved ones, health and wellness of self, safety and security, and confidence and reassurance through difficult situations. Should there be illness, we pray for healing. Should there be stress, we ask for peace. Outside of the 'usual' then, am I or are we comfortable in being truthful in asking God?
I'm mindful that God is not a genie. Yes, all things are possible through Him but He is not a genie that serves our whim without care or thought of what is good for us. And a self-conscious part of me also does not want to appear selfish nor greedy in my conversation with God. I don't want to bother God with the little things and yet I am challenged sometimes to be fully open and honest to ask about the big things. I worry about how I might be perceived by God. So without much thought, I somehow self-edit my prayers and requests.
These verses in 1 John 5 remind me that if my heart is intent on following God's will, then I should not be afraid to utter my requests. In fact, He already hears us and knows what we need. I am continually amazed at times that there are things that happen in my life that are answers to prayers that I have yet to utter, but know that it would have been something I would have prayed for had I had the courage or self-awareness. But that's just it isn't it-- that God knows us, and knows what our hearts desire. He knows what is good for us and He answers our prayers--maybe not in the way we think--but always so much better.
All we have to do, then, is to receive. We just have to receive the answers to our prayers with gratefulness, and recognize that He is God. And all things are possible through Him.
Reflection: What have you been afraid to ask for from God?
~
This week's blog will be focused on how God answers our prayers when we follow His will. Enjoy this devotional along with worship and praise music channels on Christian Calm Radio.