Before You Ask

5 "When you pray, you shall not be as the hypocrites, for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Most assuredly, I tell you, they have received their reward. 6 But you, when you pray, enter into your inner chamber, and having shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7 In praying, don't use vain repetitions, as the Goyim do; for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking. 8 Therefore don't be like them, for your Father knows what things you need, before you ask him.

9 Pray like this: 'Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.

10 Let your kingdom come. Let your will be done, as in heaven, so on eretz.

11 Give us today our daily bread.

12 Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors.

13 Bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amein.'

14 "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you don't forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. - Mat 6:5-15 HNV

An RBC Ministries international colleague shared with me her delight in serving as a translator of biblical resources. She said that she feels greatly blessed because she has the first opportunity to be ministered to by the teaching of God’s Word in the materials. As she works through them, she notes, “There is always something that addresses a need I’m facing.” Precisely when she needs encouragement from her Lord, relevant biblical help is provided.

As she spoke, I thought of how our God faithfully cares for us in numerous ways. In the different seasons of life, we find ourselves facing all sorts of challenges—but we do not face them on our own. As Christ said, “Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matt. 6:8).

In our time of need—whether spiritual, emotional, or physical—we can depend on the faithful care and concern of the Father. He knows us so well that He chooses the perfect time to give us what is best and to send reassurance of His care. “Not one [sparrow] is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear . . . ; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7).

We can trust the wisdom of His love.

My heart overflows—the grace He provides
Is just what I need for my care;
It’s all I could ask, whatever the task,
Whatever the burden I bear. —Anon.

God’s timing is always right.

http://odb.org/2012/05/05/before-you-ask/
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