Scripture
7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
Reflection
Today’s verse is in connection with prayer as both words ‘seek’ and ‘knock’ are metaphors for prayer and the word ‘knocking’ is also associated with the Rabbinic sayings as a metaphor for prayer. Jesus is expounding his statement as seen in verse 7 by combining verse 7 with verses 9-11. The reason for this confidence in an answered prayer (see verse 8) is explained by a consideration of fatherhood. A human father will not meet his son’s request for food with useless or even harmful substitutes. Yet human fathers are evil – referring to humankind’s sinful state (v.11), but they still in their sinful state knows what good gifts are. Jesus is contrasting this image of fatherhood with that of a divine and holy Father. How much more will God knows what good gifts to give us. But take caution, to not be in a relationship with God for the good gifts. God already gave us the ultimate gift (in the person of Jesus).
So next time when you do pray for something, keep verse 7 in mind that’s linked with the assurances as seen in verse 8, but never love the good gifts more than the Giver himself or forget the ultimate gift you’ve already received, namely Jesus Christ.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in your current situation
Prayer
God, You hear. Please let the displaced people of the world know that they are heard. And help us to hear them.
