Therefore do not be like [the unbelievers]. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.
Matthew 6:8
You observe your child working diligently to put together a wooden puzzle—with growing frustration. But you don’t say anything. Finally, she turns to you and asks for help. You take the opportunity to remind her of your love for her and your willingness to help her with anything she might need. Then, together, you both complete her puzzle.
People often ask, “If God already knows what we need, why do we have to pray and ask Him?” First, Jesus revealed the truth about God’s knowledge of our needs to warn His followers about going on and on in prayer—thinking we have to impress God with our many words (Matthew 6:7). Instead, He gave them a short prayer to pray as an illustration (Matthew 6:9-13). As that prayer indicates, Jesus wants us to come to God as “Our Father”—like a child who asks her father for help. God knows our needs but wants to enjoy our relationship of trust in Him, trust that is built through the conversation we call prayer.
Right now, God knows your every need. He is waiting for you to come and talk to Him.
Pray as you can; God knows what you mean.
