“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.”

2 Peter 1:3-4

I am guilty of confidently quoting conveniently abbreviated versions of Bible verses. This is one of them.

“Lord, I thank You, for You’ve given me everything I need for life and godliness…” 

Hmm…something missing there. What is the means by which we receive all things that pertain to life and godliness?

The knowledge of Him.

We must know Him to receive what we need. We must know Jesus in His sufferings, in His obedience, in His passionate pursuit of doing the will of the Father who sent Him.

Through the knowledge of Him, we are given everything we need. Apart from Him, we can do nothing – but if we abide in Him, His word abides in us, and He’ll give us anything we ask for. He’ll give us what we need.

What are you asking for?

Are you asking for all things that pertain to life and godliness? Are you asking for future protection and conviction and humility and wisdom? Are you asking confidently – not as one who doubts, for one who doubts should not expect to receive anything from the Lord? And are you growing in your knowledge of Him?

Do not get overwhelmed – this is a never-ending journey of knowing the all-knowing God. But as you read the Word, and the Holy Spirit begins to reveal aspects of the character of Jesus, let those qualities inform your requests and the way in which you pray.

Here’s one thing I’ve noticed: Jesus Christ was perceptive.

He anticipated what was to come and prayed into future situations. He asked the Father that our faith would not fail and that we would be one as He is one. He stayed up praying – and, he stayed prayed up – prepared to cast out even the most devoted demons.

Because we have died and our life is now hidden in Christ, He’ll give you that divine perception and teach you how to incorporate it into your prayer life…

…you’ve just got to ask for it.