“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8
“Ask … seek … knock” … the disciples have previously heard from Jesus that He expects them to be lights of the world and to show compassion, humility, purity, and love. For aid in doing such good things, He encouraged them to pray for the Father’s blessing. The three imperatives “Ask, seek, knock” are translated from Greek words that are in present tense suggesting both perseverance and frequent prayer to be made on behalf of those for whom we are concerned.
“Receives … finds … be opened” are stunning unconditional assurances that the Father will hear and answer the prayers of His children; therefore, we can pray boldly. Like a Father, He will answer according to His good purposes.
Earlier a paralleling contrast was drawn between the outward acts of worship (giving, praying, fasting) and the inward attitudes of devotion (possessing, praying, judging). Since the opposite of judging is fasting, it seems fitting that Jesus here makes a lengthy statement on the importance of prayer. This statement is not out of place as some have assumed; rather, it is the Christian alternative to judging. If we would sincerely pray for those whom we are prone to criticize we would ultimately do them much more good.
Everything that we need for spiritual success has been promised to us. The blessings and provisions of God are available to every one of His children.
God’s blessings on your day…