Why do we pray

[MeredithSmith]

Hi everyone, new member here. I joined because I have been struggling with a thought recently and wanted to see what others thought.

I often find myself asking God for non-spiritual things, as I imagine a lot of people do; financial or job security, good decision on a big purchase, healing, etc. recently, I have been wondering if it makes any difference.

I'm convinced of the need to pray for spiritual development but even the Bible says that that's all we need to ask for "and all these things shall be added unto you." God knows me and my future and always has even before I was born. If He truly loves me (which He does) then He will do whatever is best for me and my family in the big picture. If that's not in line with what I see as good in my nearsighted vision, God won't grant me my request. What would be the point of specific prayer then? Should I simply ask God to do what's best? Could I possibly change God's mind about whether someone receiving healing or passing on? Getting a promotion or not? Moving or not? Any thoughts are appreciated.

[Wally]

Originally Posted by MeredithSmith

Hi everyone, new member here. I joined because I have been struggling with a thought recently and wanted to see what others thought.

I often find myself asking God for non-spiritual things, as I imagine a lot of people do; financial or job security, good decision on a big purchase, healing, etc. recently, I have been wondering if it makes any difference.

I'm convinced of the need to pray for spiritual development but even the Bible says that that's all we need to ask for "and all these things shall be added unto you." God knows me and my future and always has even before I was born. If He truly loves me (which He does) then He will do whatever is best for me and my family in the big picture. If that's not in line with what I see as good in my nearsighted vision, God won't grant me my request. What would be the point of specific prayer then? Should I simply ask God to do what's best? Could I possibly change God's mind about whether someone receiving healing or passing on? Getting a promotion or not? Moving or not? Any thoughts are appreciated.

Your approach is how we all start. We need something in our material life and hope that God can come good if we ask nicely.
My advice would be try and mature your relationship with God. Find out what he wants from you. I guess the people who really have a mature relationship trust God comepletely and stop worrying about their material needs.
I havent got anywhere near that but it is worth aiming for. You are to be commended for starting your faith journey.
Id like God to help me with my financial security now but maybe that is not the most urgent thing from His perspective. You have to trust His perspective not your own. Divine intelligence leaves our intellegence for dead.