Prayer!

When it comes to prayer, people have varying views of its occasion or purpose. For some prayer is a panic button pressed when God’s immediate attention is needed. Others view it as a means of getting what you want if you say the right words. I have even heard of some who have used demanding terms in prayer. And still others view prayer as a means of blessed conversation with a wondrous Creator Who is already mindful of every aspect of our lives.

It has been stated, “Prayer is not conquering God’s reluctance but laying hold of His willingness.” [original source unknown] Prayer is a gift God has given us to use for the means of petitioning Him as well as praising and thanking Him. However if we view God as a sort of “cosmic Santa Claus” (who gives gifts to those who have been nice, but not those who have been
naughty) or “spiritual genie” (who only grants so many wishes so don’t rub the lamp too often) instead of a loving Father we will most likely find ourselves struggling with approaching prayer properly.

Jesus encouraged…
“(9) Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? (10) Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? (11) If you then, who are 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!” ( Matthew 7:9-11 ESV)

Where is the sign of reluctance in that? As a perfect loving Father, God is very WILLING to bring that which is MOST BENEFICIAL into our lives. The Greek translated “good things” in verse 11 is a word which describes that which -- being good in its character or constitution -- is BENEFICIAL in its affect. [source: Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words] However, we still are to approach God humbly and reverently.

Though there are many characteristics of God mentioned in Scripture, may we be encouraged by His essence as a perfect loving Father. And as His dear children, let us be eager to converse with Him often in prayer. ( 1 Thessalonians 5:17) What better way to reveal genuine thanks for His WILLINGNESS to bless than to WILLINGLY submit to the seeking of His guidance and Will!

Have a great day IN CONSTANT TOUCH WITH THE FATHER!
Carl

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