We are saved by hope (Romans 8:24), and we have the way of life described by Jesus that we practice to maintain this hope. Matthew 7:21-27 teaches us to be wise builders rather than foolish builders. What is the difference? The one who hears and makes the application is wise! The same storms came to each builder, but only the wise builder had built upon doing the will of God.
What is hope? It is built on faith and practice. When we find hope, we have had a challenge of faith that has resulted in success in Christ. What a blessing to know we did not have victory in and of ourselves, but rather the blessing of God was involved in our struggle.
As we ask God’s help in prayer, do we ask believing He hears us and is thoughtful about the best answer possible for us to be served and to grow as well? He listens in a different way than we do; for you see, God knows the ideals and dictates of the heart of the speaker. He knows what we really mean by our request.
What if we speak a glowing set of words and fail to have the effort in our hearts? Is this not an act of hypocrisy? We really didn’t mean it; thus, we ask if God is obligated to give us what we ask.
[Editor’s Note: Though sincerity alone is not sufficient, sincerity must accompany every aspect of our obedient response to the Word of God (John 4:24). ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]
