James: Faith in ActionSample

God Gives Us Everything We Need

What was the last thing you asked your parents for? Maybe it was for them to buy you something that you really wanted, like makeup or a new phone. Was it something that would make you feel good or make you look good?

We often fight with other people because they have something we want, or argue with our parents because they don't give us what we want. Except . . . are the things we want always what's best for us?

Verses 2 and 3 tell us that if we ask God in prayer, then He will give us everything that we need. But what we think we need versus what God knows we need might be different. We think we might need that new makeup or phone or just some extra pocket money. But our Heavenly Father wants us to ask for things that will help us to better serve Him: a mind that thinks of others, wisdom to put our faith into action, patience, love, and kindness.

Asking God for things isn't about getting what we want but about receiving what we need to live the way He wants us to. There are lots of great things to ask for in prayer, like healing for a family member or that someone you know might come to trust Jesus. But the next time you just want something that someone else has, remember instead to thank God for what he has already given you: Jesus.

Questions:

1. What are some things that you would really love to have? Do you think they would help you serve God? If not, what could be some better things to ask God for?
2. Look at verse 3. What do you think it means to ask God with the wrong motives? What do you think the right motive is?
3. How could you show your parents that you appreciate what they and God have given you?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for providing me with everything I need to live the way You want me to. Please help for me to come to You in prayer and to trust that You will give me what I need, even if it's not always what I expect. Amen.