One of the most well-known promises in the Bible is found in Matthew 7:7-8, where Jesus says:
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."
This verse is a powerful reminder that God hears our prayers and desires to bless us. However, many people struggle with what this truly means. Does this promise apply to all things? Why do some prayers go unanswered? Let’s explore the meaning behind this scripture and how we can apply it in our daily lives.
What Does "Ask and You Shall Receive" Mean?
Jesus’ words encourage us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He is a loving Father who provides for His children. This teaching is not just about material blessings—it speaks to spiritual needs, wisdom, strength, and guidance.
When Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given," He was emphasizing:
- Faith – Trusting that God will respond in His perfect way.
- Persistence – Continually seeking God in prayer, even when answers seem delayed.
- Alignment with God's Will – Praying for things that align with His plan for our lives.
This verse does not mean we will receive everything we ask for immediately. Instead, it assures us that when we seek God with a sincere heart, He will provide what is truly best for us.
Why Do Some Prayers Go Unanswered?
Many people wonder why, if Jesus said to ask and receive, some prayers seem unanswered. The Bible gives several reasons why this might happen:
| Reason | Explanation | Supporting Verse |
|---|---|---|
| God's Timing | Sometimes, God delays an answer to build patience and faith. | Ecclesiastes 3:11 – "He hath made every thing beautiful in his time." |
| Not Aligned with God's Will | God answers prayers that align with His purpose for our lives. | 1 John 5:14 – "If we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us." |
| Unconfessed Sin | Sin can create a barrier between us and God. | Isaiah 59:2 – "Your iniquities have separated between you and your God." |
| Lack of Faith | Doubt can hinder our prayers. | James 1:6 – "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering." |
| God Has Something Better | What we ask for may not be best for us, and God provides something greater. | Ephesians 3:20 – "Able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think." |
Instead of feeling discouraged when prayers aren’t answered the way we expect, we should trust that God knows what is best.
How to Pray with Confidence
If we want to experience the truth of "Ask and you shall receive," we must pray in a way that reflects faith and trust in God. Here are some steps to help:
1. Pray with Faith
Believe that God hears and answers prayers. Jesus emphasized this in Mark 11:24:
"What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them."
2. Be Persistent
Jesus used the example of a persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) to teach that we should keep praying and not give up.
3. Seek First the Kingdom of God
Matthew 6:33 tells us to prioritize God’s will above our own desires. When we do this, our prayers align with His plan.
4. Pray with the Right Motives
James 4:3 warns that selfish prayers go unanswered:
"Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."
5. Trust God's Answer
Sometimes God says "Yes," sometimes "No," and sometimes "Wait." But His answer is always for our good.
Real-Life Examples of God's Answered Prayers
The Bible is full of examples where people asked in faith and received:
- Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom – God granted wisdom when Solomon asked humbly (1 Kings 3:5-12).
- Hannah's Prayer for a Son – She prayed persistently, and God gave her Samuel (1 Samuel 1:10-20).
- Jesus in Gethsemane – He asked for the cup to pass but ultimately surrendered to God's will (Luke 22:42).
Even today, many believers can share stories of God providing for their needs, healing sickness, or giving guidance when they earnestly sought Him.
Final Thoughts
"Ask, and you shall receive" is an invitation to trust in God’s goodness. It’s not a promise of instant gratification but a reminder that our Heavenly Father listens, loves, and provides according to His perfect will. If we ask with faith, seek Him diligently, and align our prayers with His purpose, we will experience the blessings He has in store for us.
