Jesus Said, “Ask…”

Yesterday, we reflected on the passage in the Gospel of Matthew 7:7-11, Jesus said, “Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be open.” I mentioned a podcast I listen to by Brad Hansen. And he was talking about how in the context of this passage, many scholars believe Jesus was referring to wisdom. 

Jesus is saying if you ask God for it, God will give it to you… 

Again, there are so many areas of our lives that require wisdom: boundaries with others, when to change jobs and when to stay, when to give, and when giving is enabling. Brant mentioned another area we need wisdom for: When to speak, and when not to? Think about how powerful our words can be, how encouraging, how we can build up… And then on the other side of it, also how potentially destructive. 

I think about some of the posts that I’ve seen on social media. For me, it’s not just the ranting, but the tearing other people down that hurts my heart.  These posts are not adding any value to the world.  They are not blessing anybody. Really just the opposite. They’re just adding to the pain of the world. 

Are we asking for wisdom when it comes to our words?  

Maybe we need to ask: How do I handle this anger?… or this frustration? How can I be a light in this situation? Because that’s what Jesus calls us to, right? Or even:  How do I get through this difficult situation, without growing bitter – without causing further damage to myself or to others?

Jesus said, ask… ask God for wisdom… he’ll give it to you.

And then I think about how I desire peace in my own life… And I wonder what can I let go of, and what might I be doing differently. Where do I need to apply Jesus’ teachings? And where in my life, do I need to let his healing love shine?

Jesus said, “Ask…”

Let us pray: God of Grace, we hand you our difficult, confusing, heartbreaking situations. We pray for healing, and we pray for wholeness. And we also so pray for wisdom and guidance. Open our hearts to hear from you. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.