Dare to be specific

When did you last ask God about a need that seemed too commonplace or in any case, so obvious that you didn’t even think to mention it to Him?

The idea of miracles often makes us think of spectacular wonders, but God comes to disrupt our perception:

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” (read the Bible, Philippians 4:6, NLT)

Everything…express your situation to God, and don’t be afraid to be specific.

Here’s a beautiful example of an obvious but specific request from a blind beggar named Bartimaeus:

“Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi, ” the blind man said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.” (Mark 10:50-52)

Jesus knew Bartimaeus’s problem well, yet He asked him to state his desire. A beggar for several years due to his disability, Bartimaeus could’ve asked God for greater riches, for example.

But…

• Because Bartimaeus dared to put words to his problem…
• He didn’t miss the mark…
• And Jesus answered according to his faith!

My prayer for you today is that you’d be able to ask yourself, “What do I truly  want?” And that you’d have the courage to ask God to help you accomplish it.