God Cannot Deny a Praying Soul

"Prayer delights God's ear; it melts His heart; and opens His hand. God cannot deny a praying soul." - Thomas Watson

Why is it so difficult for us to ask God for help? Does this sound like a crazy question to be asking? When we feel our backs against the wall, is usually the time we remember God. But, did you know that we don't have to wait until our life comes crashing down all around us to approach him?

We can ask for help with our simple, basic everyday situations. Things like guidance, wisdom, instruction, and application may seem like rather mundane things to approach God about, but it doesn't matter. He listens to all petitions, whether big or small. One of the best examples of what I'm talking about can be found in 2 Chronicles 1.

Solomon was now sitting on the throne of David, his father. His kingdom (Israel) was all set before him. Perhaps anyone else in a similar circumstance would have let all of this go to his head. But, like his father before him, his heart was with God. Solomon began his reign with a public prayerful visit to God's altar, which was a very good sign.

Here's where it starts getting interesting! Solomon approached the bronze altar before the Lord, which was in the tent of meeting, and presented a thousand burnt offerings. That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him: "What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!"  (2 Chronicles 1:7)

Notice the process that caught God's attention. There was no "gimmie-gimmie" from Solomon. He approached God respectfully and prayerfully first. He did it the right way. After this, Solomon had God's full attention and was ready to offer an answer to his request, "Ask, and I will give it to you!" 

Again, Solomon thanked God for his blessings before going further (2 Chronicles 1:8-9). God waited to hear Solomon's reply to his offer. He was the king of Israel, and had more wealth and power than he knew what to do with. On top of that, God was now offering to give him even more! What an awesome predicament to be in!

This all could have gone in another direction very quickly with anyone else. But, not so with Solomon. He could have thrown this opportunity away on more wealth or power; or whatever. Instead, realizing what a great responsibility had been set in his lap, he asked God for more wisdom and knowledge (2 Chronicles 1:10).

He requested this not so much for himself, but to be able to care for God's people (Israel) in a way that was pleasing to God. Of course he was more than happy to grant Solomon's request (2 Chronicles 1:11-12)!

Compared to what he could have asked for, Solomon's request was ordinary and sensible. But you have to admit, it was an excellent choice! My point today is that it doesn't matter the conditions we may find ourselves in. If our requests are prayerful and sincere, God will consider them.

How, if, when, and in what way He answers us is ultimately His call. However, don't let anything hold you back from asking. We might never find ourselves in the same state of affairs as King Solomon, but God will surely listen to you and I just the same!

Scripture: John 14:13-14; Psalm 121:2; James 4:2; Matthew 7:7; Psalm 37:5

Prayer: Dear Lord, You are my stronghold in good times, and in times of trouble. You are my refuge and strength, and are always ready with a loving ear to hear my prayers, and a kind and merciful heart to deliberate over them. Amen

May God bless you always!

Brandi