IF GOD ALREADY KNOWS, WHY PRAY
How is your prayer life? I’m trying to rebuild my conversations in prayer with God - life’s smackdowns have got me off track. These last two years have somewhat derailed my desire to talk to God. It’s not that I am mad at Him, it is that my motivation to dream big, ask big, and be close to Him has waned. I hate to even admit it! I felt like I was standing in the middle of a miracle for several years, and then the bottom fell out. Disappointment, sadness, trust, and hope has been dashed by people and church promises that were never fulfilled. I know with my head that God’s love is present, that He will never leave or forsake me, and that He is seeking us out, but my heart is weary and sad. Thus, I have decided to press into the mess and rebuild my prayer life with the God of the universe!
Which brings me to my scripture for thought found in Matthew 6:8.
“...for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!”
These words from Jesus have captivated me. God, our Father, knows EXACTLY what I need - even before I come to Him and ask! He sees what I lack and what I need whether I know my needs or not.
This begs a question in my broken-hearted mind (that I realize needs adjustment). My first inclination and response to that promise from Jesus is, “What’s the point then? If You already know what I need, why do I even need to pray?”
I am well aware that my heart is wrestling my head here! God’s truth and promises are foundational in my faith in Him and His goodness. I’m struggling with my attitude, my heart, and my trust.
God, show me what I need - You already know!
Here are some positives that I am resting upon in regards to God already knowing what I need:
1. God tells us to pray - He invites and pulls us toward relationship with Him!
2. God chooses to honor our obedience in prayer! That’s good news!
3. God knows our needs but dignifies us by letting us partner with Him in prayer.
So, with that in mind, my prayers this week begin with this:
FATHER, YOU ALREADY KNOW WHAT I NEED, WILL YOU SHOW ME WHAT MY NEEDS ARE SO I CAN WALK WITH YOU TOWARD YOUR WILL FOR ME!!!
Pastor Don Erehart
