田心

            Divine miracles occur every day--when closed minds open, the spiritually blind suddenly see the gospel's truth, and rebels surrender and become God's children. Jesus promised that we who believe can have a part in great works like these by making requests in His name. 

            Our heavenly Father waits for us to draw near with our big petitions. He looks to see that we are asking based on the merits and reconciling work of Christ. He also wants to see that we have confessed all known sin and firmly believe He will do what He has said. We are to have faith that He'll keep His promises and will respond for our good. God delights in giving His children gifts (Matthew 7:11). We are to trust and not doubt. 

            God answers our requests when they are in alignment with His plan. And we know He won't act in a manner inconsistent with His character. So by searching the Scriptures, we can discover whether our desires line up with God's nature and promises. We might also learn about someone with a similar dilemma, such as: Elisha, who was exhausted and in despair; Ruth and Naomi, who were poor widows in need of the Lord's help; or David, whose life was in danger. Their interactions with God and His responses to them will provide guidance on how we can speak with Him about our difficulty. And we can be certain the Holy Spirit will help us (Romans 8:26). 

            God alone knows the perfect action to take and the right time to do so. But He invites us to ask in faith--and to keep on asking (Matthew 7:7 msg).