The purpose of prayer isn’t for us to get God to do something for us. In fact, did you know your heavenly Father doesn’t want you asking for things? Someone who finds this surprising could be wondering, But Jesus said, "Ask and it shall be given you" (Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9).
Yes, He did say that, but that was before the emergence of the new creation. "Ask and it shall be given you" was His teaching on faith and confidence in the Lord before His vicarious death, burial, resurrection and subsequent ascension to the Father to inherit all things in our behalf. Now, He’s made us joint-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). The Bible says, "…his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness…" (2 Peter 1:3).
Having discovered these truths, what would you really want to ask God for? We read in our opening verse that you’ve been blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Stop asking God for things in prayer. Use the power and privilege of prayer for higher purposes, like fellowship with the Father. You own the world. All things are yours (1 Corinthians 3:21), because you’re the seed of Abraham.
God already knew everything you’d ever need, and before you came on the scene, He made them available to you. He’s blessed you with all things already. There’s nothing today you’ll like to have that you don’t already have. "Yes, Pastor Chris, I know the Bible says all things are mine, but the reason I’m not enjoying them is because I really don’t have faith."
No; you do have faith if you’re born again. You only need to act on the Word. The Bible says, "… God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith" (Romans 12:3). The same measure of faith was given to every one of us when we received the Gospel of Christ. Moreover, that measure of faith you received at the New Birth is enough to move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Use what you have. Exercise your faith.
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for supplying everything I need to live triumphantly for your glory and fulfil my destiny in you! I refuse to fret or struggle for anything, for you’ve brought me into the place of rest and superabundance, where all my needs are met, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study: Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:7-8
: Psalms 142-145 1 Corinthians 11:2-34
: Colossians 3:12-25 Jeremiah 13
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