Prayer #4— Good Answers

If you then, being deficient, know to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him? Luke 11:13

No human parent loves perfectly. Sadly, we do not always value our children as we should. We are not always able or eager to do the very best for them. Not only are we physically and emotionally finite, there is something in us which often keeps us centered on ourselves. On the whole, however, when asked for the necessities of life, such as food and clothing and shelter, we do pretty well. As hard as it is for us, we provide for and we discipline because we want our kids to become mature, responsible adults. But even at our best, we must struggle to overcome inclinations and weaknesses that put us at odds with their wellbeing. Our Heavenly Father knows no such struggle! He is infinitely more eager and better able to do good for us than our parents were. For example, when we ask, he answers. When we come to our heavenly Father, we come not to a stern, reluctant, stingy “Old Man,” but to a happy, eager, generous “Dad.” He is the one of whom Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has gladly chosen to give you the kingdom.” Even more, he is an infinitely stable, secure and satisfying source of good. For he promises us himself, the ultimate good and the source of every other good gift we might ever receive.

Heavenly Father, how I want your goodness: the goodness you share in the Trinity, and the goodness you extend to us. Pour your good Spirit into my heart and life as Jesus said.