May 27

Whatever

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 121:1-8 | 2 Samuel 12:1-31 | John 16:1-33 | Proverbs 16:4-5

Today’s Scripture Focus:  John 16:1-33

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask and you will receive that your joy may be full” (John 16:23-24 ESV).

Whatever you ask. These are among the most amazing words from the mouth of Jesus. Apparently, they are so amazing that he needed to repeat it several times to allow the profound truth to sink in.  

“If you abide in me and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”  (15:7)

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give to you.” (15:16)

“Truly, truly I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, I will do it.” (16:23)

Yes, there are conditions to the promises like abiding in the word, asking in his name, and being faithful to our mission to go and bear fruit. These all imply an intimacy with God that leads to obedience to his commands—a familiarity with God’s will, both his heart and his word. Still the promises are amazing: “Whatever you ask.”

God’s design for you is to bear fruit as you live in intimacy and obedience (John 15). As you do so, as you abide in him, you will know the heart of the Father and will be able to pray with confidence, believing that whatever you ask the Father in Christ’s name will be done. Then you will realize the next promise: “Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full” (16:24).

May your joy be full as you walk in intimate obedience to the will of the Father, and as you ask and receive the answers to your “whatever” prayers. Your problem is not too big. Trust Him to show himself faithful and to give you the joy of answered prayer.

Lord, I am abiding in your presence, in your love, in your word. I find my delight in you, I seek to know the mind of Christ. I pour out my needs and requests now with confidence that you will hear and answer. I wait in hope and rest in your “whatever” promises.  Amen.