Asking

There are many phrases that come to mind when I think about asking...

You can't receive if you don't ask.

Give people to opportunity to say yes, don't assume they will say no.

You'll never know until you ask.

Ask and you shall receive.

I know the phrases and I get the point. But asking is hard. As a missionary I have to ask for a lot. Want a lesson in humility, become a missionary. I have to set down my pride and ask God's people to come along side me, to help me accomplish the ministry I have been given and that requires I ask for financial support.

Today I am meeting with a dear friend, a woman who is a mentor and confidant. I am going to ask her for help, to partner, to give financially. And then again tomorrow I am doing the same thing with another dear friend, mentor and confidant.

And yet as I think about these upcoming meetings and conversations the Lord is gracious and is revealing more of my pride. When it comes down to the nitty gritty people are giving to the Lord not to me. I am asking people, friends, family, strangers to partner with me in HIS work not mine. Apart from Jesus I could not do ministry. Apart from Jesus I would not be able to reach a single soul. But with His help, guidance, and yes His finances I am able to go and minister.

I don't know about you but asking is hard for me. I often find myself doing things on my own because I can't ask. Yet Jesus asked for help! He relied on the resources of others to feed him, clothe him and support his ministry. The God of the Universe, Creator God asked and received.

So why do I think asking is too hard? We live in world where that promotes self, where weakness is a fault and pride normal. I have a world mindset when I have been called to have a Heavenly mindset. Matthew 6:33 says, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Well there you have it. If I seek first God's kingdom and God's righteousness, if I seek to be humble and pure in the sight of the Lord then the Lord will provide all that I need. My requests will not fall on deaf ears or hard hearts.

Lord Jesus I pray you will prepare the hearts of those I ask to partner with me in your ministry. Give me the words to say and a humble heart to receive. Amen