THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Lord, when the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippian believers “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done,” (Philippians 4:6), could he have imagined how some would take this truth of God’s faithfulness as a blank check?

Most see the ‘don’t worry’, ‘instead pray’, ‘thank Hm’ understand what he meant. God knows our heart, and we can trust Him to supply what we need that is for our best. Sadly, for some, in their misguided theology, have turned “Tell God what you need,” into “Tell God what you want.”

“Lord, I want a Lamborghini.” “Lord, I want You to bless me with a bigger house.” “Lord, I want to be that hunka-hunka burning love’s spouse.” “Lord, I want that promotion along with the corner office with the view.” “Lord, I want to be a famous Christian celebrity and be on TV so folks will see how close I am to You.”

I envision You in Heaven, Lord, rolling Your eyes, shaking Your head.

What did the Philippians believers tell You they needed?

“Lord, I need faith when after such careful planning, things don’t go as I planned.” “Lord, help me be a godly example for my children and grandchildren so they will choose to follow You.” “Lord, I need Your love and compassion for those who don’t know You.” “Lord, give us joy amid our hardships.” “Lord, I need patience with those who so easily get on my nerves.” “Lord, I need grace to forgive those who did me wrong, so I can be free from carrying that unforgiveness baggage around.” “Lord, I need the courage to speak up for those whose voices cannot be heard.” “Lord, I need for my prodigal child to come home.” On and on the Philippians’ prayers reached Heaven’s Throne Room. May our prayers be as sincere.

Lord, show what we really need in all situations. We give You thanks for all You have done.

Amen, Jesus.