Why We Can and Should Ask Anything

S - John 16:21-24, 26, 27 (NIV): "A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. … In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God."

O - The basis for asking anything is love not the amount of faith we have for something.  According to Jesus faith the size of a mustard seed will uproot trees and toss them in the ocean (Luke 17:6).  So, faith is required but not in massive volume.  In fact, the faith for anything comes from the work all people are called to do every day and all day long … the work of believing the person of Jesus (John 6:29). We can ask anything because we are loved and are loving back. The asking involves more than obtaining something; it is a relational exchanged based on love.  Jesus tells us that not only he loves us but the Father loves us (and this before the cross) and will respond to us in love. Love will not always answer yes to the request but it will always be present to the one making the request.  Love not only forms the basis for the request but for the conclusion of the request whether it is granted or denied.  

A - Faith to ask and receive anything is not primarily inspired by God's greatness but by his love for us.  It's easy to admit he can do anything because he's God. The real issue in asking and receiving is will he, would he, do such for me.  Jesus is assuring me and all who follow that he will.  His love and willingness to both hear and respond to my/our requests is why we may confidently ask anything.  His love is limitless; like his power, wisdom and all the other attributes he possesses in himself. He has set his affection on me/us and will not change his mind.

P - Only God who loves,

Thank you for loving and wanting and calling us to yourself and to believe.  I am asking for an increase in faith which is your gift to us and for the love to receive and engage it.  Let me engage you as you wish me too … asking anything unto the joy of seeing and being with you.  I yield to your awesome brilliance, limitless power, extreme goodness and relentless love.  I am praying in Jesus' name.

Steve