Reflections
Ask, and it shall be given you. (Mat 7:7)
What does it mean to ASK God? That is really the question about prayer, because we would be dishonest to say that God gives every time we ask. He doesn’t. There are many times when God is silent even when we think we have a great need.
Of course, we must ask, “according to His will,” (I Jn. 5:14) That better defines the meaning. But it also raises another question: If we are, “to ask according to His will,” then aren’t we asking God to do what He already wants to do? Yes, we are. Then why do we need to ask at all? Why doesn’t God just do His will without us needing to ask?
God does plenty without us needing to specifically ask. But TO ASK – according to God’s will – suggests that I fully WANT the will of God — and God sees I am ready to receive it. But when am I ready to receive it? Usually when I am abiding in Christ by faith as my source for life. Jesus said, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” (John 15:7) I must ask from OUT OF my relationship with Jesus Christ – and God will provide whatever edifies myself in Him.