It matters how we ask, does it not? Janet and I often correct our children when they ask with a wrong attitude. They might say the right thing, but if their attitude is such that they are taking things for granted, then they will NOT get what they ask. We do not want our kids to take things for granted.

I see that it is the same with God. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; know and the door will be open to you.” Matt. 7:7.

We are familiar with this passage. But when we ask we do not get. When we knock, it doesn’t open. Why not? One possibility is that we do not ask with the right attitude. In a non-sequitur way, Jesus follows that statement with, “So in everything do to others what you would have them do to you.” (v. 12) It seems completely disjointed from the earlier statement. But in trying to put the two together, we see that Jesus is teaching us to ask with the right attitude of humility and compassion.

As long as we remain demanding – “I deserve this, God! You owe it to me! I paid my dues!” – God may withhold His answer. But when we recognize that we do not deserve anything, but simply presents our request to Him as a little child, He is a good and loving Father to grant us what we need.

Happy Monday!

PH