The Glories of Altarsናሙና

Petition

pe·ti·tion | pəˈtiSH(ə)n | verb

—to make an appeal or request of God; to question God about a matter; to request His strategy or intervention

What is your request? The Lord loves to hear our voice expressing our personal need for Him and is ever our Answer. At this altar we ask God to help us, then watch Him work on our behalf. Petitioning happens as a part of our dependence on God all day long, but I have come to treasure presenting weightier appeals to Him at this altar. Then my eyes are wide open to worship Him for what He does on my behalf. Heads up! Sometimes God first changes us so we can more fully receive His answer.

In addition to asking for help and provision, the Lord is also interested in our questions. At this altar we articulate a specific question and leave it suspended, as it were, between us and God. I like to write out my questions—not so God will understand my question, but so I can remain poised to recognize His answer. As I discern His voice, I compile what He is revealing in increments, aligning His communication with the Scripture and perhaps receiving affirmation from those mature in the faith.

Sometimes our petition is for the revelation of God’s perspective, wisdom, or strategy. Like questions, His fresh ideas may be unveiled immediately or remain an open-ended discussion between us and God in the context of His Word. Oh, how His perspective brings fresh light and hope to frustrating and painful situations.

It is often helpful to journal the journey of this altar. The Lord’s cumulative answers become part of our testimony and deepen our understanding or who He is. The deepening of this love relationship is the most important part of petition.

Let Us Petition

• It is precious to first approach this altar with a longing for the Lord, His Person, and nothing more. Rejoice! He is all you need. Delight in Him for who He is.
• Holy Spirit ever discerns the good pleasure and perfect will of Jesus—the mind of Christ. Ask Him to help you discern your needs and reveal God’s desire for your situation.
• Meditate on God as Jehovah-Jira, God My Provider, remembering His past kindnesses and acts of power, both in the Scriptures and your own life. It is always God’s delight for you to come to Him with your needs and questions.
• Relationship in mind, simply ask for what you need and trust the Lord with child-like faith.
• Keeping your gaze upon Him, stand spiritually poised on tiptoes as you watch for His provision.
• If God’s specific answer or provision tarries, be patient. His timing is perfect. Allow Him to lead you to other altars as you wait in expectation.