DAILY DEVOTION, Oct. 5, 2021

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer” (Matthew 21:22).

We need to be careful in reading Bible verses in isolation from truths stated elsewhere. I have heard preachers say that you can receive from God anything if you just believe. This includes new cars, boats, money, etc. Elsewhere in Scripture, this verse is modified. If we ask for things selfishly, they will not be granted (James 4:3), or if we ask God to do something contrary to His will, He will not act (1 John 5:14).

But still, even with these caveats in mind, Jesus gave us a great promise. When we pray, we certainly are to pray with faith, believing that God hears us. If our prayer is selfish or in conflict with God’s will, His answer will be “no.” So, I have stopped praying for a BMW! If our prayer is unselfish and in harmony with God’s will, we will receive if we believe. 

Those who have real faith will not expect God to answer selfish prayers or prayers outside of His will. Sometimes we do not know our own heart, so there are times when we should pray, “Father, You have heard my prayer. If it is selfish, help me to understand so I may pray properly. If my prayer is outside of Your will, I pray, Thy will be done.” Prayer is a powerful tool when used properly. Follow these basic principles and watch God go to work!

Father, I thank You for the prayer promise given to me by Jesus. However, I confess that I am often perplexed about Your will. There are times when selfishness creeps into my prayers. Help me, Father, to pray aright, in Jesus’ name, Amen.