Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires and secret petitions              of your heart.
Psalm 37:4 AMP

I’m going to start this devotional off with a little bragging. I know, I know, we’re “not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought.” But I’m not bragging about myself. I have to tell you that I have the most awesome granddaughters ever! If you knew them, you’d agree with me UNLESS you have granddaughters of your own. Then of course, you would think that THEY are the most awesome.

My point is this…I would give my granddaughters absolutely anything their hearts desired if I could afford it. My daughter said to me one time, “Mother, you just let them do anything they want when they’re at your house.” I replied, “Absolutely, as long as it doesn’t do them bodily harm! It’s my prerogative as a grandmother.”  And guess what…they LOVE coming to Meme’s house and…they never want to leave! I’m telling you…Meme Rocks!

There is however one thing they do that aggravates me somewhat. When I offer to give them something, they say, “Are you sure, Meme? Are you sure you don’t need that?” or “Meme, you don’t need to give that to me!”

I know what their thoughts are behind it. They are thinking of me and being considerate and I do appreciate it. But if I didn’t want them to have it, I wouldn’t have offered to give it to them. Are you making any analogies yet? Many times that’s how we act with our Heavenly Father. Jesus says, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24) And…“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.” (Matthew 7:11) And how about this…“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)

It must hurt the Father’s heart for us to act like He begrudgingly gives us things. You don’t have to beg Him and act like you don’t deserve it. You’re His child!  No…like me with my granddaughters, He loves to bless us and He takes pleasure in  giving us not only the things we need, but also the desires of our heart. (Psalm 37:4) The only thing HE desires in return is our love and a thankful heart.