What We Ask God for Matters

When I was younger, I had the courage to ask my parents for things. The things I asked them for were important to me. Some things were an ice cream sundae, a jacket that I wanted to wear while riding my bike and a video game station. Sometimes, I did get what I asked for but other times, I did not. My loving and caring parents only gave me the things that I really needed. God is similar, He does give His children what they ask for but only if it is in His will and their best interest.

In 1 Kings 3:5, God appears to Solomon during the night in a dream. In the dream, God told him “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Solomon did not ask for riches, a long life, or the downfall of his enemies, but for wisdom and knowledge to govern God's people justly (1 Kings 3:9). Solomon’s request made God happy (1 Kings 3:11). God responded by declaring:

"You did not ask for a long life, or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies. Since you asked for wisdom to make the right decisions, I will do what you asked. I will give you wisdom and understanding that is greater than anyone has had in the past or will have in the future. – 1 Kings 3:11-12

God granted Solomon's selfless request, not only giving him wisdom and knowledge, but also riches, wealth, and honor. It does matter to God what we ask Him for. Solomon had a heart for God’s people and to do God’s will for them, so God honored his request and gave him what he asked for. We can learn from Solomon and turn to the Holy Spirit for help when we ask God for something that we want or need (Romans 8:26). If it is in His will for us to receive what we ask for, then we can be confident that He will give it to us.

Prayer of the day:

Dear heavenly Father,

Please help us to know what we want and ask for. We need help from the Holy Spirit because we are sinners and need to know that what we want is in Your will. We do not know how or what to pray for since we do not know if what we ask for is what You want for us. You are perfect and we are not. Please Holy Spirit give us the wisdom to know what God wants for us when we pray for the things we ask our Father for. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!