“…in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God…” Philippians 4:6

Though most people place more emphasis on the element of supplication in prayer than they do adoration, thanksgiving, or intercession, and such a disproportionate emphasis needs to be recognized and corrected, yet it is not wrong to pray for ourselves. Supplication is a request for supplies. Our Heavenly Father neither resents nor discourages requests from his children. Since Jesus has opened a way of access for us into the presence of God, we can come with holy confidence and undaunted courage, knowing that “if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us…” (I Jno. 5:14-15).

To request supplies from God expresses a spirit of utter dependence on him and recognizes him as the source of all blessings. Yes, he knows our needs, even before we ask, but he wants us to acknowledge the need and to recognize him as the only One who can fulfill that need. So often, “we have not, because we ask not” (Jas. 4:2b). His promise is “Ask, and it shall be given…” (Mt. 7:7), and “…let your requests be made known unto God and the peace of God…shall keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phi. 4:6b).

No area of life is too insignificant to bring before the Lord. If you have a need, whatever it may be, you can bring it to the “throne of grace that you may find mercy and grace to help” you in that need (Heb. 4:16). He expects us, as a father would expect his children, to bring our burdens, questions, needs, and requests to him. He delights to hear (Pro. 15:8) and to answer according to his will.

Do you need strength to face a particular trial in your life? Ask him. Do you need a job, a wife, a friend, guidance, wisdom, daily necessities, a clearer view of the Savior, power to overcome some dominating or besetting sin, a renewed enthusiasm in his service? Ask him. He will not upbraid, that is, he will not rebuke, scold, or censure your request. You can talk to him. He will listen. He understands.

– Michael L. Gowens