You ask and do not receive because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. James 4:3

 Ever have big dreams, knowing that the likelihood of them coming to fruition is almost impossible? Every now and then my wife and I talk about moving to an area with some space to have a pool, bigger kitchen, and not have neighbors within earshot of our outdoor conversations. Jokingly we always say, “if we win the lottery” we can do such and such. Maybe you’ve had similar conversations with yourself or significant other.

 As children of God, we have to be careful what we ask for in this life. It’s easy to get fixated on big things that can actually result in stress from more debt, responsibility to maintain the bigger stuff, and Lord only knows the tax man will want his share of that big picture. God doesn’t object to fulfilling our dreams, and He’s richly blessed so many people in our country who are some of the strongest Christians I know.

 Today’s scripture offers advice on asking for things we dream of, we long for, and sometimes an actual need. But God, in His all-knowing wisdom, has placed limits on His blessings. Why? Because He knows specifically what will help us or what could potentially derail us spiritually.  Let’s use an example. Say you have a child who has a spending problem and comes to you, asking for money to buy an expensive boat. Would you give it to them? Most likely not, because you know they are probably struggling to make ends meet, and this big-ticket item would cost more money to maintain, putting them in a financial mess.

 Do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? James 4:5

 God loves you and gave you His all, so you can make personal request. The key to asking is aligning your request and life’s plans with His perfect will and purpose. Anything outside of that, God knows, will eventually turn to ashes. Make your petition and accept God’s blessings with a spirit of gratitude. When you do, you’ll have everything you need for this life and future home in Heaven! God bless!