- Matthew 7:7 - Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
- Matthew 7:8 - For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
- Matthew 7:9 - Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?
- Matthew 7:10 - Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?
- Matthew 7:11 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
- Matthew 6:8 - Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
One of the most generous promises God gives to His children is found in today’s verses. We are not only permitted to approach the Father with our needs, but He also promises to answer our prayers. But sometimes we might think, 'If this is true, why didn't God give me what I asked for?' The key to understanding this passage is in verse 11: 'If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!' God, who created us, knows our needs better than we do (Matthew 6:8). We sometimes ask for things we think are good and necessary, but they may not actually be for our benefit. Our Heavenly Father, however, provides what is more beneficial for us. Christ-like character is one of His most valuable gifts, and this character is often formed through trials and difficulties. When you think the Lord is not answering your prayers, remember that He is a loving Father. Consider the good gifts He has given you instead of what you asked for. It may take years to understand God’s perspective, but there will come a day when you will say: 'Lord, You were right. Thank You for giving me exactly what I needed.'
Reflection
How can you trust in God's goodness when the answers to your prayers look different than what you expected?
