The Answer Is There Even Before You Ask

MAN-TO-MANnA devotional series by Rev. Ellis Hackler
To encourage men in their roles and relationships as dads, husbands, friends, income developers, and individuals.n© ManTracks Press, 2003

Matthew 6:5-8n“For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8).

Even Before You Askn Lloyd John Ogilvie tells of an experience he remembers from his days traveling in the United States northwest. He recalls being in the coffee shop of the Billings, Montana, airport, the waitress had a badge on her uniform that had something most unusual on it. "I know you've got to catch a plane and that you're in a hurry. So what may I serve you?" n Now that's getting to the point! I suspect that the waitresses in the coffee shop had heard people's pressured request for a rush order so often they decided to shortcut the conversation and get right to the order. There was something honest and straightforward about this that I appreciate. Combined with the waitress' warm smile, it was a relief not to have to explain what she knew already.
I spoke at a retreat where all of the small group leaders had a badge that said, "I've got them too. What are yours?" You can imagine this started some good conversations. "What do we have in common?" people would ask. "Problems!" would be the answer. "So let's face them together and ask God for His strength." It was one of the best retreats I ever attended because people got to issues right away and prayed for each other.
Jesus said we didn't need to beat around the bush in our prayers with vain repetitions -- that is, lofty phrases that hide our real need. His invitation to prayer was "For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him." He's never surprised; He knows all about us. So today, hold nothing back. Pour out your heart needs. He's waiting to bless you.

Bringing it Home:Prayer is not to inform God of what He knows already but to receive solutions He has already planned.