SHIFT WEEK 6 MONDAY

AT JESUS FEET: ASK THE FATHER

Scripture Reading: Mathew 7:7-12

Jesus is teaching us (his disciples), that our stability is grounded in the loving reliability of our heavenly father. He commands us to “Ask”. To ask God for anything indicates that we are in prayer and trusting God to answer us. To “seek” indicates prayer, but it also links prayer to the action of faith in our lives. If we seek greater faith, we take action, by reading the word, fellowshipping and worshiping. If we pray for a job, we send resumes and actively follow the leads. There is responsible action in pursuing God’s good will for us. The verb “knock” is a command to act now, and continue to pursue what we have requested. Jesus wants his disciples, to be certain that God will hear and answer our prayers. Jesus assures us that it will be given, you will find, and the door will be opened. We can be certain that God delights in giving what is good to his children. If earthly fathers who are often sinful know how to give good things to their children, our perfect, holy, heavenly father is much more likely to give us what is good. We depend upon our heavenly father for every need, not only physical but spiritual. Jesus increases the stability of his disciples, by simplifying the law for them. The maxim is commonly called the “Golden Rule”. How do we treat people? Simply do to others what you would have them do to you. Jesus says that this “Golden Rule” sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for caring so much for us that you will always hear our prayers and give us what is good. May I continue to ask and act, consistently in faith always trusting you.

Scripture Verse: …how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him? Matthew 7:11