We Are Not AloneSample

Asking and receiving

Every day we spend time asking questions. Can you give me the time? Can I borrow your pen? Can you approve my request for leave? Do you have a moment to talk? Asking is a part of our lives so familiar that its significance can be lost upon us.

We’ve even coined the phrase ‘it goes without asking’ to indicate a question for which the answer is obvious. But then there’s the more challenging saying ‘if you don’t ask you don’t get’, encouraging us to find the courage to ask.

Jesus was big on asking. No doubt he knew that human beings are afraid to ask. We may feel it appears presumptuous to ask or we won’t put the question the right way or we want to avoid the disappointment of a ‘no’ answer. There are many reasons for not asking when, in fact, we should.

But Jesus took asking a step further when he added the idea of receiving. ‘You haven’t done this before,’ he said. ‘Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy’ (John 16:24). In this scenario, receiving is just as important as asking, and the spiritual principle is complete when we ask and receive in the name of Jesus.

Asking for and then receiving the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ name is a spiritual principle the same as asking for and receiving Jesus as Saviour or asking for and receiving forgiveness. It is a key part of our walk with God. Asking in Jesus’ name puts the question to God with the confidence that he wants this joyful experience for our lives. Receiving the Spirit in Jesus’ name seals the experience in our hearts.

I encourage you to make spiritual asking and receiving a daily priority for your life and know the joy of the Lord that follows.

For reflection:

What would it look like for you to make spiritual asking and receiving a daily priority?