Six Steps to a More Engaging Prayer LifeChikamu

R – Receive by Faith What You Have Petitioned

I usually don’t receive well. I mean, I try to always be grateful for what I receive, but I would much rather be on the giving end of thing… gifts, hugs, quality time, you name it, and I’ll pour these out as often as I am able, I am just not one that likes a lot of “to-do” over me. However, when we hearken back to Jesus’ words about being children, I have rarely, if ever, have met a child that didn’t like to receive. It is in their nature and the bigger you build up the surprise, the more excited they get. That said, from Jesus’ words, receiving needs to be a core value of ours as His children. As a matter of fact, the psalmist said in Psalm 103:13 (Passion Translation), “The same way a loving father feels toward his children—that’s but a sample of your tender feelings toward us, your beloved children, who live in awe of you.”

Jesus received easily from the Father and so should we. Actually, The Father didn’t give just a little to Jesus. Matthew 11:27 says He gave Him everything – "My Father has given Me all things. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.” That, friends, is the kind of relationship we need to cultivate in prayer, that we believe we have a Father who wants to provide everything we need for our assignment here on Earth. If having trouble with that theologically, then fasten your seat belt and read this verse: 1 Timothy 6:17 (NIV) “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” Paul is highlighting the arrogance of anyone who believes that their wealth can self-sustain them. He then says, “No, put our hope in God who provides us with everything we need for our enjoyment.” Receiving by faith becomes easy when we decide that our Father is absolutely ready to provide whatever we need!

Prayer: Father, if I have a skewed vision of Your goodness and nature, please forgive me. I am deciding that I will take on the heart of a child and eagerly believe You for what You have promised!

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