A Baptist couple decide they want to get a dog. As they’re walking down the street, they notice a sign in the pet shop that’s advertising “Christian Puppies.” Their interest is piqued, so they go inside.
“How do you know they’re Christian puppies?”
“Watch,” says the owner, as he takes one of the dogs and says, “Fetch the Bible.” The dog runs over to the desk, and grabs the Bible in its mouth, returns, and puts the Bible on the floor.
The owner says, “Find Psalm 23.” The dog flips pages with its paw until he reaches the right page, and then stops.
Amazed and delighted, the couple purchases the dog and heads for home.
That evening they invite some friends over and show them the new dog. Then they have him run through his Psalm 23 routine.
Impressed, one of the visitors asks “Does he also know ‘regular’ commands?”
“Gee, we don’t know. We didn’t ask,” replies the husband.
Turning to the dog, he says, “Sit.” The dog sits.
He says, “Lie down.” The dog lies down.
He says “Roll over.” The dog rolls over.
He says “Heel.” The dog runs over to him, jumps up on the sofa, puts both paws on the owner’s forehead and bows his head.
“Oh look!” the wife exclaims. “He’s PENTECOSTAL!”
Whatever your denominational background, Jesus tells us:
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:7-8, NLT
Asking is the most basic premise of prayer.
It’s the call to have a need fulfilled. The call for help to someone who is able and willing to fulfill that need.
More than anyone, God knows that many times we come to him out of need. Because we’re in crisis. Crisis isn’t a reason to AVOID asking. Rather it’s a reminder that we NEED to ask.
Asking God for help reminds us that in Him all our needs are met. He is our provider and healer. He gives us peace, security, strength, and joy.
Today there are things we need to ask God for help with in our own lives. And there are several people around each of us who need help as well: Healing from sickness and disease, financial stability, hope in the middle of deep darkness, comfort for personal loss and tragedy—the list goes on.
Today, ask God to meet your needs. Then ask God to meet the needs of those around you that you’re aware of. Be reminded that God is able. And keep on asking.
That’s worship.
–Pastor Steve.