And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 1 John 5:14 KJV
The Context and Charge:
How does a mortal man speak with so much conviction and confidence? The only way I know how is from personal experience. It is one thing to hear other people's accounts of God's dealings with them, or to hear them recount the stories of God's grace upon the lives of other people, but nothing can beat that which you see with your eyes, hear with your ears and experience in your own life. That stays with you forever. This is the point where God would have me settle: the place of personal conviction and experience. Is all I know about God only that which other people say, or have I come to know God for myself? What say you?
This verse was addressed to very specific people, as seen in the verse just before today's extract, which says very clearly: These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God. It does not leave you in any doubt as to those who can claim the benefits laid out in today's extract. God has enough blessings for the whole world, but there is a different level of grace, favour and mercy that those who believe in His Son experience. These are people who have come to trust in Jesus, who have surrendered their lives to Him and given Him control over their lives. Does this describe me in detail, or is there an area I still need to address?
The Contention and Conclusion:
Surrender to Jesus births confidence in your relationship with the Father. I cannot be my father's child and be afraid to ask Him for anything. Even if he will say NO, I can still make the approach due to the blood-relationship of Father and child. If this is true in the physical, between fallen and mortal creatures, imagine the impact of this relationship between a loving Father and his creation? Please check the subject of your confidence; if it is not in Jesus, it is in someone else, as there is always a spiritual dimension to our lives. The One in charge defines what I get. We know who we have come to trust, and we know what we have received from Him? Do you?
This is the benefit of the access God gives us: we can ask anything according to His will. Because we belong to Him, his Spirit in us helps us to crave after the things He loves. I just note that the verse ends with the truth that God hears. Can I trust God enough that he hears and will do according to His perfect will for me? Since I have surrendered to His will, I will have no problem accepting His response. His love for me already guarantees I will get His best. Surrender breeds confidence; ask God for anything out of a healthy relationship with Him. You are sure to have his heart and ears. God's time of favour is here.
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