JUST ASK

By Rick Mathes

John 16:23 And in that day you will ask Me no question. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you shall ask the Father for anything, He will give it to you in My name.

There are too many abuses of this verse especially in the prosperity-faith, name it-claim it scams vulnerable sheep are being led to the butcher’s block by smoldering shepherd in flaming pulpits. When they ask, our Lord’s desires are not considered. It’s all about self-gratification. The Scriptures teach to ask in His name according to His perfect will. Beware of His permissive will. This is when He gives the devil to tempt you within limits like He did Job. So when you ask (pay attention here) the answer is always in His will according to His purposes: either perfect or permissive (think about this).

Be sure to advance your request beyond your reach. It is only then that you know the result is because of Him not you. So He gets the full glory. If your request is within your reach, with enough motivation you will just do it and of course take full credit for the outcome no matter how you couch your prayer in solemn pontification, because that’s all it is.

Let’s look at a few hindrances in your prayers:

• Insincerity: This is the promise to change your ways if your prayer is answered to your satisfaction. It could also include comments to   others that skew the promises of prayer to your favor: no intention of keeping.
• Selfishness: When you’re asking is riddled with the words, “I-me-mine” it has nothing then to do with, “He-Him-His.” Self-gratification is a futile motive for coming before the throne of grace in prayer.
• Impatience: Jesus loves you more than you can even imagine love to be. He promises to always answer your prayers with a yes, no or not yet.
• Unbelief: So many professing Christians can blow you away with their ability to speak to the Lord with convincing supplications. They are eloquent, persuasive, and solemn. The father of lies inhabits every word he taught them.

The simplicity of this teaching is, “KISS.” When you pray, keep it simple stupid! Jesus can see right through your motive and He knows your heart so ask honestly and truthfully, but just ask.