Session 2

Tired of not getting your way?

From Mark: A 6-Week Devotional

“…whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

When we read Mark 11:24, it sounds like all we have to do is ask God for anything and we can have it. But that’s not entirely true. The truth is prayer isn’t about taking our Christmas list to God and waiting for Him to deliver our presents. Prayer is about standing humbly before God and receiving whatever good gift He chooses to give us.

In Matthew 6:33, Matthew, one of Jesus’ followers, writes, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” As we spend time with God, our thoughts and desires become more like His. When that happens, we can ask God for anything and He’ll give it to us. Why? Because we will have been transformed through relational intimacy with Him to the point that we want what He wants for us.

That’s the point of the Christian life. And it’s the point of prayer. Prayer isn’t about getting what we ask for. It’s about getting more of God. Because it’s only through God’s love that we discover the soul-satisfying peace and joy we really want.

Reflect:

• If you were to ask God for anything, what would it be?
• What do the things you’re asking God for say about your priorities in life? Are your priorities in line with God’s priorities?
• What is one way you can spend more time with God this week?