Jesus says, “…I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. (John 16:23).

The word “whatever” seems to be all-inclusive. The blessings that God wants to pour out on his children are many and varied.

However, the phrase “in my name” puts some restrictions on what God will give us. We are to pray in the name, or the authority, of Jesus. No one can access the throne of God without Jesus Christ. Eph.2:18 says, “For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” And of course we must pray only for the things that are in accordance with God’s will. We shouldn’t expect that he will grant a request that does not coincide with his purpose.

Suppose you had an opportunity to meet with the president and ask him to do a favor for you. What would you ask for? Would you request that he fix the annoying pothole at the end of your street? He would think you are silly if that’s all you asked for!

Now consider the fact that we can ask God for anything. What are you requesting from the Creator of the universe? Are you praying big, bold prayers—the kind of prayers that were uttered by Nehemiah, David, Paul and other biblical prayer warriors? Or are you asking God to fix potholes?

“Whatever you ask”—think about that phrase when you pray.