S4: 1 John 5: 14-15

 Scripture Read.  1st John 5: 14-15  14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

Thought Applied.  Again, such boldness!  If what we ask is in according to his will, he not only hears but also grants! 

Application Made.  Where this often breaks down is in two spots.  1st, is what we asked in accordance to his will?  We can read "his will" to be either - is it a good thing?  Or "is it in alignment with the plans he has made and how he sees that events will unfold?"  I feel that BOTH conditions have to be met, and is is the latter that we do not know.  But if we feel both conditions are true, then ask away!

Response Prayer.  Lord, I do not see time as you see time.  And I know that what I feel is good is not what is actually good.  Help me to keep those in mind as I pray and ask, but do not allow that to be a hinderance to my request - or my boldness in asking!

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