Afraid of Asking

I consider prayer to be one of the most unique and incredible parts of my faith in God. And it’s something I’ve learned not to take for granted.

But there’s something I’ve realized recently: that I shouldn’t be afraid of asking.

When I pray, I try to remember to pray for others first before my own requests. And I definitely want to pray for others' needs, whether I tell them I will or not. But for the longest time, I was afraid that I was being extremely selfish when I pray for any needs or worries that I have.

Dear reader, after studying this, I found that my worries are totally misplaced.

Let me show you what I mean with the following verses:

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” - James 1:5

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” - 1 Peter 5:6-7 (emphasis added)

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” - Philippians 4:6

Do any of those verses above discourage asking God for your needs? I certainly don’t see that being the case. God wants us to talk to Him and bring Him our personal needs and concerns as well as our praises and requests on others’ behalf. He wants us to talk to Him, period, because He loves us.

And that’s why I’m not afraid of asking. :)