Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – September 24, 2014
And I [Jesus] will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:13-14
We can ask anything of Jesus that aligns with His will and brings glory to His Father. A follower of Jesus filled with the Spirit desires what God desires. With humble hearts we long with our Lord for loved ones to love Him. When our conscience is saturated with spiritual motivation, we cry out in contrition over the slightest of sins. With wisdom we ask how to care for the Spirit’s temple (our body, 1 Corinthians 6:19). Yes, we can ask anything in Jesus’ name since it is for His fame.
Wow, what a beautiful display of love. Jesus did not leave His disciples alone. He would send the Holy Spirit to empower them, then ascend to heaven and intercede to the Father on their behalf. Indeed, they would do greater works because of the Lord’s work in and through them. Their mission field expanded beyond their small nation to many nations of the known world. Pentecost brought all tongues and tribes to them so they could share the resurrection story. In Jesus’ name they ask for saved souls, healed bodies, strengthened churches and God’s favor!
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).
Are you quietly and confidently asking Jesus for Jesus sized opportunities? If you are in a rut at work, ask the Lord to leverage your influence for Him. Follow His leading in how to love those around you in ways they will feel loved. Invite them to enjoy a meal. Listen to their fears and dreams. Give them ideas and resources to recover their courage and revive their joy. Ask your heavenly Father for wisdom and discernment to be used at His discretion. Invite the Holy Spirit to grow your faith and love to a capacity that consistently experiences Kingdom outcomes. Ask Him!
We can ask anything, because Christ has already done everything. We do not grow weary in well doing because our loving Shepherd gives us His green grass of rest. As we walk and reflect in His creation, He draws our spirit into oneness with His. We feel His fierce love looming all around us. Our heavenly Father whispers, ‘You are my beloved, my precious one– you know My heart, so ask Me–ask Me anything we both can enjoy.’ So, what will you ask?
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I want what You want. Give me the faith and wisdom to ask according to Your will.
Related Readings: 1 Kings 3:5; Matthew 21:22; James 1:5-8, 4:2-3, 5:16; 1 John 3:22, 5:14-15
Post/Tweet today: In Jesus’ name, we can ask anything because He has already done everything. #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: Jim Cymbala 9 minute video on Prayer- http://bit.ly/1Bq7Ftj
Our new book, The Way of Wisdom: A Journey Towards Spiritual Growth, coming in October! Pre-order your copy today.
Boyd’s one minute video about the new book- http://bit.ly/1nhZ2bt
