There’s a difference between begging and persistent prayer. James 4:2 says we do not have because we do not ask God, but it goes on to say when we do ask, we ask with wrong motives.
When my kids come to me and ask nicely for something that is good (like a play date or extra broccoli), I’m much more likely to grant their desire than if they hound me with “please, please, please, please, please!” That’s annoying to me.
Prayer is a mystery that I don’t fully comprehend, but we’re directed to do it, and I’m pretty sure it’s more for our sake than God’s. I pray for other people, for health, for my children to follow hard after Him, for the salvation of friends and family; all of these are good things for which to pray. That red convertible Mustang? Not so much.
Want an example of a prayer to which God pays attention? See Matthew 6:9-13.
“This, then, is how you should pray:
‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.'”
Amen
Thankful today for:
172. still low humidity
173. trip preparations
174. chiropractors
175. leftovers
176. good books
177. nice pens
178. a wonderful Easter celebration
179. the chance to work with my husband for a week
180. the mountains
181. air travel
Compelled 