And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith. (Matthew 21:22)
It’s match play. They’re on the 18th hole, a par four, and both players are about to hit their second shots. The match is tied.
Player A has striped a perfect drive down the middle of the fairway. He has what golf announcers call a “green-light special.” He can go directly at the flag.
Player B has been a little unfortunate. His ball landed in heavy rough, and his path to the green is blocked.
Player B draws on a favorite verse from Scripture:
“I can do all things through him who gives me strength.” —Philippians 4:13
Player B asks, “Lord, with all the faith that I have, please help me put this ball on the green.”
Will God hear this request? Of course He will. The question is whether it should even be asked. Are we supposed to rely on Him for everything or only for what is important?
And then, the question becomes, “What is important?”
“But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” —Luke 12:7
In other words, not only are we valued in God’s eyes, but He also hears everything we say. Now, as to whether He will answer our prayers as we hope—big or small—that is something we can comfortably leave to Him.
Our job is to offer prayer, not to qualify it.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
How we respond to His answer is what is important to Him. He is the Judge, the Jury, and the Appellate Court.
Back to Player B. Some folks might say, “Good for him for asking.” Others might say, “That’s a totally ridiculous and inappropriate request.” Still others might say, “Shame, double shame on you for asking.”
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” —Matthew 7:7
When it comes to prayer, I am certain that God has no problem—or overload—dealing with any volume of prayers. Obviously, though, we all probably wrestle with what is appropriate to pray for.
Perhaps, the more appropriate prayer would go like this: “Lord! I need your help to hit a great shot. If I do, I’ll give you thanks. If I don’t, I’ll trust you for the grace to handle failure.”
“Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
—Mark 11:24
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your constant presence, patience, wisdom, and love. May we reach out to You in all circumstances to receive Your love and guidance. May we remember that You always respond, whether Your decision is to grant our requests, postpone action on them, or deny them. In every instance, Your decisions are fully trustworthy. We praise and love You.