Petition
Scripture Reading — Matthew 7:7-11
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
One of the most amazing things about prayer is that the Creator of the universe wants us to ask him to do things for us. We would never think of asking a prime minister or president to do a favor for us. Yet God not only lets us do that; he also encourages and even commands that we do it.
Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). That little word “give” seems out of place in the Lord’s Prayer, doesn’t it? After all, who are we to tell God what to do? So far, the Lord’s Prayer has focused entirely on God. We’ve prayed about honoring the Father’s name and seeking his kingdom and will. How is it that we can now instruct God to pay attention to us?
The answer to this question is in the amazing grace and humility that dwell in God’s heart. God wants to have a close relationship with us. He wants to take care of our daily needs, and he wants us to know that we can approach him with confidence.
God wants us to know that because we rely on him for everything, and because he promises to care for us, we can ask him for all that we need—and that can range from things like amazing miracles to ordinary food like daily bread.
The King of heaven has turned his heart of love toward you. Looking at Jesus’ example and knowing the promises God has made, what will you ask him for today?
Thank you, Lord, for your abundant blessings. Help me to share them generously with others so they too can know your love. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
About the author — Peter Hoytema
Peter Hoytema has been a pastor for nearly 30 years and has served congregations in Ontario and New Jersey. He is currently the pastor of a congregation in Strathroy, Ontario. He is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary and San Francisco Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Grace, are the parents of four adult children.
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