My parents like to tell stories about my sister and I when we were little. Some of these include us begging to go to McDonalds or spend the night at a friend’s house. We would plead and cry until someone caved… either them or us. :-)
My sister and I never had a plan or strategy. We knew what we wanted then we asked for it.
I remember being that way with God too. I would just put my hands together and start asking. Honestly, that is not the case anymore. Now, I’m hesitant and start questioning myself instead:
“Is what I want even in God’s will?”
“Should I fast?”
“Did I pray the right way?”
The Bible addresses this and actually tells us we should come “boldly” before the throne (Hebrews 4:16). We often equate boldness with arrogance which isn’t the case. The Greek word is “parresia” which means freedom of speech, confidence.
We see many examples of this in scripture. One of my favorites is found in Mark 10.
When a blind man named Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was walking by, there was no hesitancy. He immediately begins to shout “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (vs 47) People told him to be quiet but he didn’t listen. He repeated himself again, then Jesus stopped and asked one simple question,
“‘What do you want me to do for you?’ Jesus asked him. The blind man said, ‘Rabbi, I want to see.’” (Mark 10:51 NLT)
Wait a minute Bartimaeus! You obviously have not had any communication training. You are supposed to present your case and explain why it would be good for you to see. You need to tell Jesus all the things you could do for Him if you had your sight! And plus, didn’t they teach you anything at the synagogue? What about God’s will? You didn’t even start with praise & worship. You are just going straight to your request?
What is as surprising as the way Bartimaeus asked is the way Jesus answered him.
“‘Go,’ said Jesus, ‘your FAITH has healed you.’ Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.” (Mark 10:52 NLT)
Faith? What faith? All Bartimeaus did was ask, freely and with confidence.
That’s pretty bold.
Sometimes, like Bartimaeus, we get what we want. Sometimes, we don’t but even then, we know we can trust the heart of our Father.
What do you want God to do for you? Go ahead … ask.
“…your Heavenly Father gives good gifts to those who ask Him. (Matthew 7:11 NLT)
~ Anu
