Devotion: More

on January 1, 2006

Often when we pray as a group, in circle prayers, or “popcorn” prayers, it is interesting to listen to the various ways people pray. Some pray very formally and reverently, which is certainly appropriate, while others pray very casually, as though talking on the phone to their best friend, which may be equally appropriate. Another thing I notice in people’s prayers is the tendency to use the word “just” excessively. For instance, “I just ask that you would be with so-and-so, that you would just keep everyone safe, and that we could just have an opportunity to touch just one person’s life this week. Does this sound familiar? Do you ever catch yourself praying like this? I confess, I am guilty. I’ve found myself praying to a “just” God, asking God to give only as much as I need and as long as I have “just” enough, I will be content. The pity is that God has much more in store for us!

This is evident throughout the Bible. You see it in stories like the Wedding at Cana…Jesus didn’t just provide the wine, he provided the BEST wine (John 2:10). When the disciples were having a rough time catching some fish, Jesus didn’t just let them catch enough; no! He filled their nets to the point where the disciples were unable to haul the net in because of the large number. (John 21:11) And of course, the feeding of the 5,000. Having only two fish and five loaves, it would be enough if Jesus would just stretch it out enough to hold the people over until they were able to get home and prepare a nice meal for themselves. But that is not Gods way. There were twelve baskets left over after everyone had enough. THAT’s God’s way (John 6:13). These three examples are from the book of John, there are more examples throughout the rest of the Bible.

What am I asking God to do for me and through me? Am I asking for just enough? Am I worried about inconveniencing God by asking for more? What MORE could I ask? Think big. I’m talking Psalm 23:5 – my cup overflows – BIG! You’ve heard the phrase “It never hurts to ask.” Jesus said “Whatever you ask of the father in my name will be granted to you.” (John 11:22, John 14:13, John 15:7, John 15:16, John 16:23) Of course, he said it more than once. Isn’t that just like Him!

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”Ephesians 3:20-21

Published January 1, 2006