Believe

 Mark 11:24 ESV

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 


This verse sounds too good to be true. It also sounds easily abused. We might think it makes God sound like a blank cheque or a divine slot machine.

In the context, Jesus was talking about forgiveness. If we think we're beyond forgiveness, we can cling to the promise of this verse. If we believe Christ has forgiven us, we will be.

Our faith doesn't earn our forgiveness. Jesus's blood achieved our forgiveness. Yet faith is the divine gift that unlocks the door of forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Our greatest need isn't stuff. This verse doesn't give us licence to ask for a private jet for example. Yet if we believingly ask God to adopt us into his family through Christ's sacrifice on our behalf, he will.

'Abba Father God, please give us the faith we need to enjoy a relationship with you. We ask in Christ's gracious name, amen'.

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