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Ask, Seek, Knock
'Ready Answer' by John O. ReidMost of us are reluctant to request things of others, but asking is free and can bring a great deal of help. We often hesitate because we fear appearing less knowledgeable or imposing on others, yet asking to become wiser proves the opposite, and many enjoy lending a hand. In Luke 11, Jesus teaches about making requests through a parable of a man who persistently asks his neighbor for bread at midnight and eventually receives it. Jesus clarifies in verse 9 that we should ask, seek, and knock with the proper attitude, promising that those who do so will receive, find, and have doors opened to them. The gifts from God may be tangible blessings or spiritual insights, such as understanding how to apply wisdom or patience to overcome problems. When Jesus says that to him who knocks it will be opened, it means gaining access to something previously closed, whether through personal study, counsel, or other circumstances, with the intent to teach us how to apply God's instruction to solve our issues. God is as concerned with teaching us the process that leads to solutions as He is with providing the solutions themselves. Even if we ask correctly with obedience and sincerity, there may be times when God refuses our requests if they are not in our best interests, if we are being tested to develop patience and faith, or if a larger purpose is at work. However, if we approach with the right heart, most often God will provide the help or answer we seek. We have the greatest Counselor available at any hour, ready to aid us in our needs—all we must do is ask, seek, and knock.
Ask, Seek, Knock
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn answer to the question, 'How can a mere human being fulfill the difficult expectations of God?', Jesus instructs us to 'Ask, seek, and knock.'
Ask God for the Little Things
CGG Weekly by John O. ReidPeople used to look to God more than they do now. It was common for people to take all their needs to God, confident that He would listen to and provide them.
Whatever We Ask
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPrayer comes under attack if we live double-lives, giving us a guilty conscience, not practicing what we have been taught, allowing our hearts to condemn us.
Seek My Face
Sermonette by Ryan McClureGod turns His face away from those who have committed sin. Our entire spiritual pilgrimage is a quest to see God's face in full splendor (Revelation 22:1-5).
Ask and It Will Be Given
'Ready Answer' by StaffMany people hit a plateau in their spiritual growth and go little further. Have we have overlooked the simple principle of 'ask and it will be given'?
Parable of the Persistent Friend
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsUnlike the sleeping friend, God is not reluctant to answer our prayers, but He does want us to be diligent and patient in our requests.
Unanswered Prayer
Sermonette by James BeaubelleEven though we often must wait for a response, God listens closely to our prayers from the heart and is looking out for our best interests.
Prayer and Persistence
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPersistence in prayer does not mean an incessant pestering God into action. God always looks at our petitions from the vantage-point of His purpose.
Another Look at the Prosperity Gospel
CGG Weekly by Mike FuhrerProsperity gospel preachers twist verses out of context to convince people that God will give them anything. They fail to mention that God does not give His benefits to just anyone.
Faith and the Christian Fight (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBoth the 'eternal security' and 'no works' doctrines are destroyed by the remarkable example of Noah, who performed extraordinary works based upon faith.
Faith and Prayer
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughConstant, earnest prayer keeps faith alive and makes certain the receiving of the qualities that make us in the image of God. God's purpose comes first.
Praying Always (Part Five)
Article by Pat HigginsDeeply examining ourselves for flaws and shortcomings, as we do each year before Passover, helps us to accomplish Christ's command to watch and pray always.
The Christian Fight (Part Five)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe faithful life and work of Noah illustrates that after justification, walking by faith with God is a practical responsibility.
Matthew (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughEntering the Kingdom requires choosing the narrow, difficult path of sacrifice, service, and humility over the easy, broad path of selfishness.