Asking God-Appreciation
Appreciation – Asking
Let others know you appreciate them.
(Num 10:29-32) By complimenting Hohab’s dessert skills, Moses let him know he was needed. People cannot know you appreciate them if you do not tell them they are important to you. Complimenting those who deserve it builds lasting relationships and helps people know they are valued. Think about those who have helped you this month. What can you do to let them know how much you need and appreciate them?
Ask God anything and expect anything.
(Gn 18:33) God showed Abraham that asking for anything is allowed, with the understanding that God’s answers come from God’s perspective. They are not always in harmony with our expectations, for only He knows the whole story. Are you missing God’s answer to a prayer because you haven’t considered any possible answers other than the one you expect?
Ask questions before fighting.
(Jos 22:11-34) When the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar at the Jordan river, the rest of Israel feared that these tribes were starting their own religion and rebelling against God. But before beginning an actual all-out-war, Phinehas led a delegation to learn the truth, following the principle taught in Deuteronomy 13:12-19. He was prepared to negotiate rather than fight if a battle was not necessary. When he learned that the altar was for a memorial rather than for pagan sacrifice, war was averted and unity restored.
As nations and as individuals, we should benefit from a similar approach to resolving conflicts. Assuming the worst about the intentions of others only brings trouble. Israel averted the threat of civil war by asking before assaulting. Beware of reacting before you hear the whole story.
Don’t be afraid to ask others for help.
(Neh 2:7-8) After his prayer, Nehemiah asked the king for permission to go to Judah. As soon as he got a positive answer, he began asking for additional help. Sometimes when we have needs, we hesitate to ask the right people for help because we are afraid to approach them. Not Nehemiah! He went directly to the person who most able to help. They may be more interested and approachable than you think. God’s answers to prayer may come as a result of our asking others.