In that day you will ask in My name . . . for the Father Himself loves you . . . —John 16:26-27
“. . . whatever you ask the Father in My name . . .” (John 16:23). “That day” is a day of peace and an untroubled relationship between God and His saint. Just as Jesus stood unblemished and pure in the presence of His Father, we too by the mighty power and effectiveness of the baptism of the Holy Spirit can be lifted into that relationship—”. . . that they may be one just as We are one . . .” (John 17:22).
“. . . He will give you” (John 16:23). Jesus said that because of His name God will recognize and respond to our prayers. What a great challenge and invitation—to pray in His name! Through the resurrection and ascension power of Jesus, and through the Holy Spirit He has sent, we can be lifted into such a relationship. Once in that wonderful position, having been placed there by Jesus Christ, we can pray to God in Jesus’ name—in His nature. This is a gift granted to us through the Holy Spirit, and Jesus said, “. . . whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you.” The sovereign character of Jesus Christ is tested and proved by His own statements.
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May 29, 2012
Journal Entry for Today-JDV
Lord, I have had so many unanswered prayers I often wonder if your promise was meant for everyone else but me. You know the promise that…” My Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” I did not see any qualifiers in the scripture, qualifiers like, “Whatever you ask must be in God’s will”, or “you must be in God’s will”, or “God is going to give you something better; later”. And the one that seems to make the most sense to my limited awareness; God will only answer your prayers for your ultimate good. OK, I understand and appreciate those qualifiers”, but the scripture is very clear, “My Father will give you whatever you ask in my name”. Lord, what are the issues and conditions or caveats that condition what at first seemed like a very simple promise that I could have whatever I asked?
And God says…”Just like a little child that wants to run headlong out into the street, I need to “parent you” until you are the very image of Jesus, or until you understand and will avoid the dangers of trying to fulfill your desires. The ultimate and desired outcome for all of My children is to become the very likeness of Jesus. You are not shaped and purified by getting your own way; you are shaped and purified by living in My will. Why do you think Jesus said (Matthew 19:23-30) “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven? Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” This scripture, “My Father will give you whatever you ask in my name” will come alive for you and you will understand the scope of this promise when you live in intimate relationship with me. (Matthew 6:33) Seek first the Kingdom of God, which is Jesus, and all these things will be added unto you. (Proverbs 3:5-6) Trust in God with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding, and He will make your paths straight.”