An important scripture in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is found in the New Testament under James 1:5-6. This is the verse Joseph Smith, Jr., read that inspired him to pray to Heavenly Father for guidance. In response he received what we affectionately call the First Vision. In addition, the books we recognize as scripture contain multiple verses similar to this one, giving the same guidance that can be found here. This indicates the importance of what this scripture teaches. So in the next few blogs I want to focus on this passage of scripture.
The passage reads: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.”
There are really three parts to this passage of scripture. The first is the directive to ask of God. Second is the promise that we will receive an answer. Third is the instruction that we must ask in faith, nothing wavering.
The first part, the directive to ask God for the wisdom we need, is the one I wish to focus on today. Another scripture valued by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Alma 33, lets us know we need to pray for any needs we have. Many other scriptures support this claim.
These are important directives. Think about what it is really telling you. There is an omnipotent being who organized your spirit. Then this being directed the creation of your physical bodies and the union of your physical and spiritual bodies as a soul. This is your Heavenly Father, as previous blogs have mentioned. These scriptures tell you that you can communicate with Him. Isn’t it wonderful to know that through prayer you can communicate with the Omnipotent God?
But it takes faith to pray. After all, why would God worry about you when He has so many other concerns? Yet another beautiful scripture helps address this concern. Luke 12: 6-7 reads: “Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.”
This, along with many other scriptures, promises that we are not forgotten. God knows us and is mindful of us. He will listen to our prayers.
When you think about it, it also makes sense that He listens to our prayers. Think of parents. Do they not listen to their children’s concerns, pleas, and requests? There are some who don’t. But those who love their children are mindful of what their children have to say. If we who are imperfect are mindful of our children because we love them, God who has perfect love would be mindful of His children because He loves them.
I know our Heavenly Father hears our prayers and listens to what He has to say. He has asked us to pray to Him because He loves us and wants us to communicate with Him. Don’t hesitate. Don’t think yourself beneath Him. He is mindful of every sparrow, and you are more valuable than many of them. You are not beneath Him. So, have faith you will be heard and turn to Heavenly Father in prayer.
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