And this is the boldness we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14 NRSV
By a certain age, we become conditioned not to ask for things. Perhaps we fear being a burden to others, or our fear is based on previous rejection. For whatever reason, we have an innate desire to be self-sufficient; if we can’t do it ourselves, it remains undone. There is nothing wrong with being self-confident and doing things for ourselves. However, there are times when we all need help.
In God, we needn’t fear in our asking; quite the opposite, we can be confident in our asking. We can approach God boldly with our request. We can do this as believers because of what Jesus Christ has done for us. He has made the relationship personal. We are children who bring our requests to a loving and gracious Father who has promised us eternal life.
Like earthly children coming before parents, not everything we ask is for our good. For example, if a teenager who has just received their driver's license were to ask for a high-performance sports car, we wouldn’t give it to them. It’s their desire, but not for their good. That is to say, God will provide what is for our good and according to his overarching plan for us.
How do we know what is according to God’s will? We don’t always, but he has given us the Holy Spirit to help us discern. By reading God’s word and conversing with him, we understand what God values, and our desires align with God’s. Our requests are not focused less on what we desire but on what God desires for us: to become more like Jesus Christ. Our prayers aren’t only for ourselves but for others, that His will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Father God, we confidently come before you, knowing that you hear our prayers. We ask that you help us to discern your will and to pray according to it. We pray that you will give us the wisdom and strength to follow your plan for our lives.
We pray for those struggling with illness, grief, or any other hardship. We ask that you comfort them and give them peace. We pray that those in leadership positions seek your guidance and wisdom as they make decisions that affect others.
We pray for our families and friends that they will know your love and grace. We ask that you protect them and keep them safe. We pray for those who do not know you that they will come to know your love and salvation.
We thank you for your faithfulness and goodness. We pray that you will continue working in our lives and the world around us. We ask all these things in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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