Ask, and it will be given you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened for you. Matthew 7:7 WEB
In chapter five of Matthew’s gospel, the author begins recounting Jesus’ sermon on the mount. The sermon continues here with Jesus’ teaching the attitude with which believers should pray. In addition, Jesus encourages his listeners that God answers the prayers of the faithful. As Paul asserts in Hebrews 11:6, “Without faith it is impossible to be well pleasing to him, for he who comes to God must believe that he exists, and that he is a rewarder of those who seek him. WEB”
Jesus’ words here, “seek and you will find,” indicate rising intensity in the pursuit of a relationship with God. The word “ask” signifies a simple prayerful request in faith. To “seek” denotes persistence in the belief that God rewards those who follow him. Finally, to “knock” reveals a deeper level of persistence with continual, repetitive action.
The following verse assures that God is listening. Jesus says in Matthew 7:8, “For everyone who asks receives. He who seeks finds. To him who knocks it will be opened. WEB” But more than just listening, Jesus reveals here that God answers our prayers. He is a living God that is actively involved in our lives.
The Good Things of God
Beyond that, Jesus teaches that God is our loving Father. Matthew records these words of Christ in Matthew 7:9-11 which read, “Or who is there among you who, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, who will give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! WEB”
The Lord will not give us just anything we ask. These words are not an invitation to use God as a means to our own ends. Rather, Jesus’ words encourage us to bring our requests to God, to seek out the good things of God, and to be in the Lord’s presence. Jesus’ promise, “seek and you will find” encourages us to interact with our generous and righteous Father who loves us and wants to provide for our needs.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for giving us the truth of your word in Jesus Christ. Thank you for the promise of his message “seek and you will find.” Give me wisdom to apply this knowledge to my daily life. Supply my needs as I worship you in your holy presence. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: All Things Are Possible
