The Bible says we have not because we ask not in James 4. If that’s the case, it sounds like an invitation to me. In Matthew, we see Jesus encouraging us to do just that.
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 (NKJV)
Those are weighty promises. If that’s the case, what are we to ask for then? Well, that depends.
He did give us instructions when he taught us to pray the Lord’s prayer in Matthew 6 and Luke 11. And if that’s all we knew, that would be enough.
We are instructed to pray “Your Kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV) And this prayer in reality encompasses everything. To ask for the dominion of the Lord here on earth as it is being played out in heaven right now. Yes, Lord.
One of the most beautiful things to pray for is to know him more.
Paul talks about this in Ephesians chapter 3 where he tells the church in Ephesus what he has been asking the Lord to do in their lives. He closes with the desire for the church in Ephesus to know the love of Christ, the love that “surpasses knowledge.” We can pray the same prayer for ourselves now.
“And to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:19 (NIV 1984)
This is an experiential type of knowing. To know this love. Yes, you can feel the love of God! And the result will be that we will be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. That sounds rich.
The reality is, God can change a life in a matter of moments. God can change your life in a moment. And you can know this love that surpasses knowledge. That’s why it’s important to take a moment to pray and ask. He meets us in our time of need and is so generous in his love. Thank you, Lord!
So, whatever your need is, bring it to him today. His ear is so close. And his hand is so open. Let’s open up our hearts and activate that childlike faith again. To believe our Father. To believe that he will do what he says he will do. And that he loves to show us his love! He will answer us.
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV)
Pray with me:
God, I want to believe like a child again. Teach me how to pray. I lean into you and press my head against your chest and trust you for the days ahead. So, today I ask that you will allow me to know you deeper. I want to know this love that surpasses knowledge. I want to know you. You are love. Help me feel your presence all around me. Holy Spirit, make Jesus real to me. Thank you. I trust you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
TAKE A MOMENT TO PRAY 