Prayer is an essential practice in the life of a Christian. It is through communication with God that we establish an intimate relationship with Him, seek direction, comfort, and receive blessings from Him. A verse that underscores the power of prayer and encourages us to earnestly seek God is Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it will be given you; seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you”. In this Bible study, we will explore the meaning of this verse, its practical application in our daily lives, and the relationship with other verses that highlight the importance of prayer.
The Meaning of “Ask and it shall be given you”
In the context of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus exhorts His followers to trust in God and seek His provision. When He says “Ask and it will be given to you”, He is inviting us to bring our requests and needs to God in prayer. These words are an invitation to approach Him in faith and dare to ask, knowing that He is a loving and generous Father.
This promise that we will receive what we ask for does not mean that God will automatically give us whatever we ask for, regardless of our motives or His will. The key is aligning our requests with God’s will and trusting His love and wisdom to respond in what’s best for us.
Jesus encourages us to ask in prayer, knowing that God is a loving Father who wants to bless us. However, He also invites us to seek an intimate relationship with God and to trust in His sovereign will, even when His answers are not immediate or do not fit our expectations.
As we approach God in prayer, it is important to recognize that He knows our needs even before we ask. In Matthew 6:8 , Jesus teaches us, “For your Father knows what you need before you ask.” It reminds us that God is aware of our needs and wants us to trust Him in all circumstances.
However, prayer is not just a way to get things from God. It is also a means of developing a deep relationship with Him. When we seek God in prayer, we draw near to Him and are transformed in His presence. Our faith is strengthened, our fellowship with Him is deepened, and we are empowered to live according to His will.
Furthermore, Jesus invites us to seek, not just ask. The search involves a persevering attitude of constant search for God, to know his will and to seek his face. While it is encouraging to know that God invites us to ask and seek in prayer, we must also remember that His responses may not be immediate or in line with our personal desires. In His infinite wisdom, He knows what’s best for us, even when we don’t understand His ways.
God’s answer to our prayers can be “yes”, “no” or “wait”. Sometimes He grants us what we ask for, because it is according to His will and He will bless us. At other times, He may tell us “no” because He knows that what we ask is not in our best interest or is not in line with His higher plans.
There may also be times when God asks us to wait. This requires patience and trust in His perfect timing. Sometimes He is preparing us, molding us and working in us before granting what we ask. Waiting can be a time of spiritual growth and strengthening of our faith.
In all this we must rely on the goodness and wisdom of God. While his answers may not be what we expect or desire, we can be assured that he always works for our good and for his glory. In Romans 8:28 , Paul writes, “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose.”
Therefore, as we study Matthew 7:7 and reflect on this promise of Jesus, let us be encouraged to seek God in prayer in faith, humility, and submission. Let us seek his will above our own and trust that he is a loving Father who hears us and responds according to what is best for us. Prayer is a privilege that allows us to commune with the Creator of the universe and experience His love, grace, and provision in our lives.
seek and you shall find
In addition to inviting us to ask, Jesus also encourages us to seek. This is a call to diligently seek God and His will in our lives. Seeking implies active action, a continuous effort to know more about God, His Word and His direction for us.
When we seek God with all our hearts, we find that He is ready to reveal Himself to us. We can find His wisdom, guidance, and comfort in times of need. In the book of Jeremiah 29:13 , we read: “And you will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart”. This verse complements the message of Matthew 7:7, highlighting that sincere seeking will result in finding God and experiencing his presence in our lives.
At times, the quest can seem like a long and challenging journey, but God promises to reward those who earnestly seek Him. In the book of Hebrews 11:6 , we find another encouraging promise: “Now without faith it is impossible to please him; for he who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him.” That persevering faith propels us to keep seeking God and trusting that He will reward our seeking.
Knock and it will open to you
In addition to asking and seeking, Jesus invites us to knock. Knocking is a persistent act of persevering in prayer, even when answers don’t come immediately. It is an invitation to approach God with persistence, confidence and humility.
By knocking on God’s door in prayer, we recognize our dependence on Him and our need for His intervention in our lives. However, we don’t always receive immediate answers to our prayers. Sometimes God is at work in us, molding our character and strengthening our faith before granting us what we ask for.
However, we can be sure that when we knock on God’s door with persevering faith, He will open to us. Jesus himself states in Matthew 7:8: “For everyone who asks receives; and what he seeks, he finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened”. These words encourage us to trust that God hears our prayers and acts on our behalf, at the right time and in the way that best suits us.
Other Verses on Prayer
In addition to Matthew 7:7, the Bible is full of verses that highlight the importance of prayer and motivate us to seek God in constant fellowship. Let’s explore some of these verses that complement Jesus’ teaching on asking, seeking, and knocking.
1. Philippians 4:6-7 – The Peace of God That Transcends All Understanding
Philippians 4:6-7 offers us a precious promise and important guidance regarding prayer. Paul writes to the Philippians, encouraging them not to be anxious about anything. Rather, he exhorts them to bring all their cares before God in prayer and supplication, accompanied by thanksgiving. Paul’s instruction is clear: we are to present everything to God in prayer, expressing our gratitude and confidence in his provision and care.
“Do not be anxious about anything; rather, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, make your requests known before God in everything. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6,7)
These verses remind us that God is interested in every aspect of our lives. He wants us to share our concerns, desires, and needs with Him. And as we do, He promises that His peace, which surpasses all human understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This divine peace goes beyond human comprehension and gives us a sense of tranquility and confidence, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
Therefore, when we face anxiety, uncertainty or worries, we should remember the promise of Philippians 4:6-7. Instead of fretting, we should turn to God in prayer, trusting that He hears and answers our petitions. We must bring everything before Him, thanking Him for His faithfulness and provision, and we will experience His peace that passes all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
2. James 5:16 – The Power of Intercessory Prayer
James 5:16 highlights the importance of intercessory prayer and sharing our struggles with one another. James instructs us to confess our sins to one another and to pray for one another in order to obtain healing. He points out that the fervent prayer of a righteous person has great power and effectiveness.
Intercessory prayer involves placing other people’s needs and difficulties before God. When we pray for one another, we are taking on the role of intercessors, acting on behalf of those in need of divine healing, guidance, or provision. It is an act of love and compassion, demonstrating our concern for others and our desire to seek God’s intervention in their lives.
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The prayer offered by a righteous man can do much in its effects.” (James 5:16)
Furthermore, James reminds us of the importance of mutual confession of sins. As we share our struggles and weaknesses with one another, we can receive support, encouragement, and heartfelt prayers. Transparency and genuine fellowship within the faith community are essential for spiritual growth and emotional healing.
Therefore, intercessory prayer not only brings benefits to those we pray for, but also strengthens the bond between the members of the body of Christ. As we pray for one another, we show mutual love and care and experience the transforming power of prayer in our own lives.
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Prayer as a Lifestyle
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is a passage that challenges us to live a life of constant prayer and continual joy. Paul instructs the Thessalonians to always rejoice, to pray without ceasing, and to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for them in Christ Jesus.
Prayer should not be seen as a one-off event or a sporadic activity in our lives, but as an ongoing lifestyle. We must be constantly connected with God, seeking His presence, guidance, and fellowship. Prayer is not just a means of getting answers or solutions to our problems, but it is an expression of our relationship with our heavenly Father.
“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Paul also encourages us to have an attitude of gratitude in all circumstances. Instead of focusing on difficulties and challenges, we should learn to recognize God’s goodness in the midst of trials. Gratitude helps us keep a heart turned to God, acknowledging His faithfulness, love and care, regardless of the circumstances we face.
Living a life of constant prayer and gratitude helps us stay in tune with God’s will. This allows us to experience His peace, joy, and direction in every aspect of our lives. Continual prayer keeps us connected to the heart of God, molds us in his image, and empowers us to face life’s challenges with confidence and hope.
4. Ephesians 6:18 – Prayer as a Spiritual Weapon
Ephesians 6:18 introduces us to prayer as a powerful spiritual weapon in the spiritual battle we face. Paul instructs the Ephesians to pray at all times in the Spirit with perseverance and supplication for all the saints.
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints,” (Ephesians 6:18)
Prayer is a means by which we approach God and seek His divine intervention. It is a direct communication channel with the Creator of the universe. When we pray in the Spirit, we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, inspire us, and help us to pray according to God’s will.
Paul also encourages us to pray with perseverance, without giving up or losing hope. The spiritual battle can be intense and challenging, but prayer strengthens us and enables us to stand firm in the faith. We are to pray not only for ourselves but also for other believers, taking their needs before God and interceding on their behalf.
By using prayer as a spiritual weapon, we are engaging in the fight against evil spiritual forces and proclaiming Christ’s victory in our lives and in the lives of others. Prayer empowers us to resist the enemy, overcome temptations, and live a life in accordance with God’s purposes.
In short, prayer is a powerful tool God has given us to draw closer to Him, seek His will, and experience His peace. It is an invitation to a deep and meaningful relationship with our heavenly Father. By surrendering ourselves to prayer, we discover the joy of seeking God and living in constant communion with Him. May we embrace the call to prayer, recognizing its importance and seeking God with all our hearts, knowing that He hears us and responds with love and grace.
These additional verses reinforce the importance of prayer in our daily lives. They remind us that prayer is a means by which we draw closer to God, find peace, healing, direction, and engage in God’s purpose for us and others.
The Importance of the Attitude of Heart in Prayer
As we study Matthew 7:7, it is essential to understand that the attitude of the heart during prayer plays a crucial role. It is not just about repeating empty words or seeking selfish benefits, but about approaching God in humility, faith and submission.
In Mark 11:24 , Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith when he says, “Therefore I say to you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Faith is essential in prayer, as it allows us to fully trust God, even when circumstances seem unfavorable. Having faith means believing that God hears and will answer according to his perfect will.
Furthermore, Jesus teaches us about the importance of humility in Luke 18:9-14, through the parable of the Pharisee and the publican. While the Pharisee prayed arrogantly, exalting himself, the publican approached God humbly, recognizing his need for forgiveness and mercy. Jesus concludes by saying, “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other” (Luke 18:14b). Therefore, it is essential that our prayer be accompanied by humility, recognizing our total dependence on God.
The attitude of submission is also fundamental. Jesus taught us to pray in the model known as the Our Father, in Matthew 6:9-13. In this model of prayer, we recognize God’s holiness, seek his will and submit to it. When we approach God with a submissive attitude, we are ready to accept his answer, even if it is different from what we expected.
Prayer is not just a list of requests that we present to God, but also a moment of communion and dialogue with Him. Just as any healthy relationship requires constant communication, we too must communicate with God through prayer.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Paul instructs us to “pray without ceasing.” This does not mean that we must be in prayer 24 hours a day, but that we must cultivate an attitude of constant communication with God, acknowledging his presence in all aspects of our lives. We can pray at all times and under all circumstances, sharing our thoughts, joys, challenges, and needs with Him.
Furthermore, prayer should not be just a monologue, but a genuine dialogue with God. As we speak with Him, we must also hear His voice through reading God’s Word and leading by the Holy Spirit. Prayer and meditation on God’s Word go hand in hand, strengthening our relationship with Him and allowing us to discern His will.
Prayer: An Instrument of Personal and Collective Transformation
Prayer is not only a way to get answers from God, but also a means by which we are transformed and molded into the image of Christ. Through prayer, we are empowered to live according to God’s purposes and experience His transforming power in our lives.
In Romans 12:2, Paul exhorts us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, acceptable and perfect will of God.” Prayer is a means by which we renew our minds, letting go of the world’s standards and values and embracing God’s will.
Through prayer, we are strengthened in our relationship with God, enabled to resist temptation, grow in holiness, and live according to His will. It is an ongoing process of transformation where we surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in us, allowing Him to mold us and enable us to live God-honoring lives.
While individual prayer is essential, it is also important to highlight the power of collective prayer. When we unite in prayer with other believers, our prayers become even more powerful.
Jesus says in Matthew 18:19-20, “Truly I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be given to them by My Father who it’s in the heavens. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” When we unite in prayer, calling on the name of Jesus, He promises to be present and answer our petitions.
Corporate prayer strengthens fellowship among believers, encourages and edifies one another, and amplifies the power of intercession. As we pray together, we are strengthened in our faith and witness the power of God at work in answer to our prayers.
Therefore, let us not underestimate the power of corporate prayer. Let us look for opportunities to gather together in prayer with other believers, whether in churches, Bible study groups or prayer meetings. United in prayer, we can experience God’s transforming power in our lives and in our midst.
Conclusion
Through Matthew 7:7, we are reminded of Jesus’ invitation to seek God in prayer. We can ask, seek, and knock with confidence, knowing that God hears and answers our prayers. However, we must approach God in faith, humility and submission, acknowledging his sovereignty and trusting his perfect will.
Prayer is not just a way to get answers from God, but a means of communion and personal transformation. Through prayer, we experience God’s presence, find peace, direction, and strength, and are molded into the image of Christ. Prayer is also a collective practice, strengthening fellowship among believers and amplifying the power of intercession.
Therefore, may we seek God in constant prayer, trusting in His faithfulness and love. Let the promise of Matthew 7:7 be a constant reminder that when we seek God wholeheartedly, we find a gracious, life-changing answer from Him. May prayer be a central part of our daily lives, enabling us to live in accordance with God’s purposes and experience His power in all areas of our lives.
