Boldness to Ask for Gifts

Today, as I was listening to the sermon on boldly asking in prayer, I got to thinking about how my grandchildren have no hesitancy in asking if I have gifts for them. In fact, they very boldly proclaim, "Gigi and Oupa have gifts!" We have just returned from holiday, and the first time we see the grandkids, they have come to expect gifts. We can be offended by their boldness, be delighted that they have come to expect, or understand that we love to seek out little treasures that are specific to each of them-things that bring them joy.

When we arrive back after being away and hear their happy squeals and their shouting, "Gigi and Oupa are here... they have gifts!" the younger ones may even shout, "Where are the gifts?" At times, they can ask for unreasonable things-there is no limit to what they ask and expect. They push boundaries with their childlike faith. They believe there is always more available.

Rather than being offended at their bold asking, we are blessed that they know us as gift-givers. And each time we go away, I feel I need to get better at seeking out gifts that help them feel special, but also help them discover their God-identity. It reminds them that we thought of them every day-that they were always in our thoughts and conversation-and that we took the time not just to buy any gift, but to find things that speak to them. Their joy brings us joy.

How much more does God, our Heavenly Father, love to bless us with gifts? He knows exactly what strengthens our spirits and brings us joy. But I wonder if we truly believe that He has gifts for each of us-not just for some. As adults, we often put limits on God. We hesitate to ask and simply accept our allotment. We don't push boundaries or carry an expectation of God's generosity.

God says in His Word: The one who seeks, finds. The one who asks, receives.

Are we expectant? Are we looking for these gifts with the understanding that our Heavenly Father loves our boldness-and loves to give His children good gifts?

Ask and keep on asking.

When we believe that the Lord is not near, or that He hasn't got us consistently on His mind, it robs us of powerful prayer-of asking boldly.

God is good. He is near. He is a generous Father who loves to give gifts. We do not need to strive or behave our way into receiving a gift. He simply loves to bless His children.

Let's not limit His generosity-or His desire to spoil His children.