Ask and Receive

“And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight.” (1 John 3:22 NIV)

One of the great privileges of being a child of God is that we are invited—actually encouraged—to ask. Not beg. Not hope vaguely. Not wonder if God is willing. He tells us plainly to come, to ask, and to expect that He hears and responds.

Jesus connects answered prayer to relationship:

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7)

Abiding means staying close—living in fellowship with Him, letting His Word shape our desires. When our hearts are aligned with His heart, our prayers begin to line up with His will.

He also reminds us that prayer is tied to purpose:

“You did not choose Me but I chose you… that you would go and bear fruit… so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.” (John 15:16)

God doesn’t just answer prayers for our comfort—He answers prayers so our lives will bear lasting fruit.

And Jesus makes the invitation unmistakably clear:

“Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.” (John 16:24 NASB)

Then He drives the point home with a simple picture:

“So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you…” (Luke 11:9–13)

If earthly fathers know how to give good gifts, how much more does our heavenly Father!

Therefore

Don’t live prayer-poor when God invites you to pray boldly. Abide in Christ. Let His Word shape your desires. Ask in faith. Trust His heart. And expect that your Father loves to give good gifts to His children.

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)