John 14:13-14. NKJV
If ever there was a contentious subject in the bible, then it is this one: 'If you ask - I will do.' All over the place, Christian people knock the subject of prosperity. Prosperity preachers are strongly criticised because they preach what they believe. Yes, it's true that some TV preachers are regularly asking that people send them money, but it is a limited few. Many other respected preachers are totally into sowing and reaping and they want others to reap too. Like them or loathe them, they preach the Word of God and really that's all that matters. The Apostle Paul addressed this in Philippians 1:12-18, when preachers were accused of preaching for gain. Paraphrased, he is saying, 'Whatever, as long as Christ is preached and souls are saved, that is all that matters.'
We can't get away from the fact that Jesus, in His statement above, used the words, 'Whatever' and 'Anything.' What is there not to understand about His statement. He was - and still is - encouraging people to live by faith, in fact, 'Walk by faith, not by sight'. 2 Corinthians 5:7.
Jesus gave us a promise to honour our faith. He was saying, 'Whatever you ask, I'll give it to you.' This was about more than money - which seems to be the first thing that comes into some people's minds when they read this. Some people need healing, so ask Him and He'll do it. Just take a look in Mark 5 where we see the woman with the issue of blood and the Nobleman's daughter, both healed because of their faith. Then there is the example of Bartimaus, who asked for his sight to be restored, and it was.
As long as we're walking in faith with Jesus, and living our lives as an example of our Christianity, then we can ask Jesus for, 'Whatever' or 'Anything', and He will do it. He's not a Father Christmas figure however, giving presents out to people everywhere. No, He is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour, who wants to bless His children - abundantly. John 10:10.
But we have got to watch the doubt. There is nothing more efficient at cancelling out faith than doubt. Just a mention of, 'Hopefully, God will answer my prayer', or 'I don't suppose anything will happen but it's worth a try.' are an example. Statements such as these can close faith's doors immediately.
So walk by faith, not by sight. Believe you'll receive what you ask for and keep on praising the one who loves you - Jesus!
Copyriight 2020 Grahame Howard
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