Ask Responsibly

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; those who seek find; and to those who knock, the door will be opened.”- Matthew 7:7-8

          As believers, we take these verses out of context and apply them to our lives telling ourselves that we can receive whatever we ask for from God at any time. We are mistaken. I am not sure why we desire so many temporal things rather than the eternal things of God, but for some inexplicable reason we cannot help being drawn to them like a moth to a flame. What Matthew is referring to here are the things of the kingdom. When we ask for Godly things and for our basic needs to be met, God responds. We don’t have to beg or plead with God, only ask. The Lord knows the motivation of our hearts. He also knows what we are in need of. In spite of that it behooves us to ask anyway, for the answers bolster our faith. If we don’t ask, our needs will undoubtedly be met; however, we may miss the significance of such an event because we weren’t watching for it. 

          The things of this world will surely pass away. The things of God will not. It is pretty cut and dry. When we ask for the things of God we are asking for patience, perseverance, joy, peace, love for our fellow man … things of that nature. Success in this life is not gauged by how many ‘things’ of earthly value we have, but rather by our obedience to the standards set by the Lord. We should be mindful of what you are asking for. Is it something you can purchase on your own when the finances are available? Then if you simply must have it, wait until you can afford it, don’t beg God for it and don’t allow yourself to fall into the credit card abyss. If you are asking for something that money cannot buy, like humility or joy or tranquility in the face of difficult odds, then ask and expect your answer with confidence. God loves you and will lead you into all things that are necessary for a fulfilling life. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

NOTE: “Jesus promise is for the righteous (people who share kingdom values) who are asking for basic needs and making requests concerning the kingdom.” [Inter-Varsity Press New Testament Bible Commentary]