Asking and Receiving Even Small Things
What Jesus described runs the gamut in Christian circles between the “name it and claim it,” group and those with a more nuanced approach to prayer.
The question came up recently when I wrote an Utmost Response for July 16.
Oswald Chambers had some insightful words on that day’s reading from My Utmost for His Highest.
Biddy titled his post The Concept of Divine Control–which should give us a hint of their thoughts on the subject!
“Jesus urges us to keep our minds filled with the concept of God’s control over everything, which means that a disciple must maintain an attitude of perfect trust and an eagerness to ask and to seek.”
Wait–trust in God’s control?
What are we really asking?
For most of us, prayer is about asking.
We make requests of God, usually for ourselves and often for others.
It means we’ve recognized a need and we’re appealing to God for an answer.
Sometimes we even remember we’re dealing with the Creator of the Universe whose plans are perfect–for the Universe and for us.
We need to ask ourselves–do we really want His will to be done?
Can we trust Him if we don’t get the answer we hope for?
Does God really love us?
Why not rest in peace and let Him control situations rather than trying to do it ourselves?
Maybe something else, however, is going on?
As Oswald explains,
“There are times, says Jesus, when God cannot lift the darkness from you, but trust Him.”
Look at that word “cannot.” It’s not because God is not capable, but rather because He knows allowing us to spend time in uncertainty can cause our faith to mature.
Most of us don’t like to admit we grow more during difficulties than in a life of ease. 
