The Oxford dictionary gives the definition of “receive” as: be given, presented with or paid (something); suffer, experience, or be subject to (specified treatment).
In John 16:24 Jesus said: “Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete”. What did Jesus mean? Can we ask for anything or only for righteous things? Will our request be granted or denied? When the request is granted we will feel loved and happy and be trusting but when the request is denied, we feel abandoned, hurt and frustrated. We are provided, with love, the things that are
beneficial to us.
There are times that I can recall asking for a specific item as a birthday or Christmas gift when asked by my family. On the day, a completely different item is presented. The disappointment has been real, the frustration and perception that I have not been listened to is evident. However, when I look back and reflect on the gift I received, it has always been far superior to what I
originally asked for, more needed and more appreciated too. It’s as if my request was heard but others could see what I really needed and gave it to me in love.
The disciples didn’t ask for the gift of the holy spirit. In a way, they were commanded to accept and receive this gift from God. Even though they hadn’t asked, God had chosen to bestow this gift of the holy spirit on them, out of love, knowing that it would be beneficial to the growth of his kingdom and that the Holy Spirit would assist them in this work. God
knew that they would need comfort and reassurance when Jesus was gone, that they could not be left alone and so he gave them the ultimate gift. Did they ask for the Holy Spirit? No. Did they want the Holy Spirit? No, they wanted Jesus? Did they appreciate the gift that they received? I can only assume that they did, that they were eternally grateful for God’s presence with and within them. A gift that they didn’t know they needed but a gift that kept on giving.
What are you asking God for today?
What gift would you like to receive?
Why not invite Jesus to receive a place in your heart?
