I can do all things through HIM who gives me strength. Phil. 4:13
From the end of the earth I call to YOU when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the ROCK that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with EVERY SPIRITUAL BLESSING in the heavenly places. Eph 1:3
So, when I read Jesus' words "Ask whatever you wish in my name and it will be given to you", I am really perplexed. I mean, Jesus said it, so it's true, right? Ask Him for anything and it's mine? I can tell you from experience that this isn't how it works. So, either Jesus was lying (definitely not the case) or there is something wrong with the way I understand this verse (a most probable senerio).
I think Ephesians 1 is the answer. We have been promised every
spiritual blessing. This means that, without fail, I can ask God to help me with something in the spiritual realm and He
will help. The difference is that I have to change my prayers.
Instead of, "Lord, please make this baby fall asleep." I should pray, "Lord, please give me another 20 minutes of a clam, patient spirit, so I can gently rock this child to sleep."
Instead of, "Father, please bring someone along to buy this house." I should pray, "Father, please continue to remind me that I have everything I need. Give me a content heart."
Instead of, "Jesus, please give me all green lights because I am so late for this appointment." I should pray, "Jesus, I have failed at being punctual. Please help me to be gracious and handle my failure humbly."
The latter prayers WILL be answered. I must be dependent on Him for everything. I can gracefully walk through any situation with Christlike character if I am asking for His help. I can be Christlike in ANYTHING through HIM who gives me strength. He always answers when I ask for a gentle and quiet spirit, patience, grace to extend to others, and a calm response when my temper is rising. He is so good and faithful to His word.
