The Magnitude of Your Ask

35 James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came to Him saying, “Teacher we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You.” 36 And He replied to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 They said to Him, “Grant that we may sit [with You], one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory [Your majesty and splendor in Your kingdom].” 38 But Jesus said to them “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism [of suffering and death] with which I am baptized? 39 And they replied to Him, “We are able” Jesus told them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and you will be baptized with the baptism which which I was baptized. 40 But to sit on My right or left, this is not Mine to give; but it is for those whom it has been prepared [by My Father]” (Mark 10:35-40 AMP).

Like the sons of Zebedee, we often ask the Lord to move on our behalf or to do something for us. However, we do not always understand the weight of our request or what will be required of us once the Lord grants it. How often have you asked the Lord to heal you, or to bless you with a job, house, car, etc.? And once the Lord meets your need, how often have you complained about the very blessing He gave you?

Brothers and sisters, the Lord is a Father who gives generously. Never take for granted the things He has given you. We must be faithful with little before we can be entrusted with much. Whatever the Lord has granted you, rejoice—but do not become careless or take His blessings lightly.