Bible Study - Matthew 7:7-12

Read Matthew 7:7-12: Why doesn't God answer my prayer? Why doesn't God do what I ask? Have you ever heard that sort of remark perhaps even thought something like it yourself? After all, in our passage for today, doesn't it say Ask and it will be given to you? But of course people who think like that have been starting in the wrong place. They are putting themselves first and that should not be the Christian's approach to prayer. In all our praying the place to start is with God.; Look at verses 9-11, where we see that as earthly fathers usually want only what is good for their children, so how much more does God want the best for us. And he knows what is best. We are to ask, to seek and to knock, but realising the he knows what is best in every situation. He always answers, but not necessarily in the way we expect.; I know not by what methods rare
But this I know - God answers prayer.
I know not when he sends the Word
That tells us fervent prayer is heard;
I know it cometh soon or late,
Therefore we need to pray and wait.
I know not if the blessing sought
Will come in just the guise I thought;
I leave my prayers with him alone
Whose will is wiser that my own.; Author unknown
To think about: 1. Are your prayers too much like a shopping list?; 2. Do you find it difficult to accept that the answers to you prayers will not always be in the affirmative?
Prayer: Father, help me to remember that you know what is best for me and for those I pray for. Amen.