That old shopping list...

Recently while at bible study, the scenario was proposed... What would you say, based on this passage, to the guy who wants a promotion at work?

My response was, I would tell him to pray hard for that promotion!

Sacrilege you might say? Not so fast, hear me out.

Firstly, we serve a God who is good and loving, a God who is benevolent and is in the practice of showering blessings on us. Not only did he save the world, but he also sends rain and keeps us alive. He gave us chocolate, movies, dance, music, all for us to enjoy. He gave us the ocean in which we can play.

Secondly, what about this? Why do we pray for things? As soon as you pray for something you are acknowledging God's role in what you're praying for. Fallen man does not want to pray for things because fallen man believes he can get that promotion by himself and does not need God's help! I would encourage someone to pray for what they want because it means they are acknowledging God's role in their lives. However, they must pray for a _long_ time, and can't be disappointed when God does not give them what they want.

The thing for the person to remember is that no father will give their children a poisonous snake no matter how much they ask for one! He knows what is good for his children, and likewise our Father in heaven. Let's face it, if you're asking for something that is going to lead you away from your Father, you're practically guaranteed not to get it - you might get it, but you don't have much to base your prayers on so I don't think your prayers will last very long.