Just Ask

John 14:14 – Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! (NLT)

Ask, and you might receive; ask not, and you probably won't.

Driving in unfamiliar terrain was once more frightening than it is now. Since there was no Internet, I could not pull up directions on my computer or smartphone. My only options were to ask someone who had already been where I was going or to purchase a map and figure it out for myself.

Maps were readily available. The most popular place to find them was the local filling station, a place where attendants pumped gas, cleaned windshields, and checked oil. In the centre of the pump island or just inside the station were maps.

Having a map reduced — but didn't eliminate — the possibility of getting lost. Names and numbers were crunched into small areas. In spite of my best efforts, I've gotten lost. Being a typical man, I hated to stop and ask directions from anyone in the area. It was an admission that I couldn't figure out my dilemma — that I was less than an adequate direction-follower. I've wasted gas riding in circles or sent my wife in to get directions more times than I care to remember.

The solution was simple: stop and ask someone who lived in the area that I was going to. Jesus provides just such a simple solution for life in general. Do we have any kind of need? Just ask Him. He'll be glad to assist.

Jesus' help is never wrong. Others have given me faulty directions — though not intentionally. Maps have concealed information that I needed to see, and GPSs have sent me to the wrong places. Since Jesus is omniscient — all knowing — I don't have to worry about this with Him.

Jesus is always willing to help. While technology is readily available, it's not foolproof. Others are sometimes too busy to mess with my life issues. Jesus, on the other hand, wants to be involved in every detail of our lives.

Jesus' help is also free. Maps weren't and still aren't, nor are GPSs. Though I can download a free direction app on my smartphone, the phone wasn't free. And even if it were, my monthly service isn't. Jesus charges zero. I ask; He comes to my rescue.

Life issues present us with physical, emotional, social, and spiritual quandaries. But none are too difficult for the Saviour of the world.

Need a hand? Just ask Jesus.

Prayer: Father, we thank You for Your continual readiness and willingness to help us with life issues. Amen.