Receiving Is Often Based On Asking
Asking is a rule of the kingdom of God. Matthew 7:7 and James 4:2 say, “Keep asking and you will receive” and “you have not because you ask not.” Nor does this apply only to asking of the Lord. Jesus favorably referred to the man who kept knocking at his friend’s door, at midnight, to ask for bread (Luke 11:5-8).
Some would say, though, that we should not ask others for help but just let the Holy Spirit speak to people about helping us. While there are some Christians who consistently hear clearly from God and are willing to act on it, I would wager that most do not. Looking at how pastors and church leaders handle this matter, I don’t think I have ever met one who hasn’t asked for money, help in doing some work around the church etc. If the apparently universal leadership practice of asking is any indication, we should ask when we need help.
James 5:16 tells us, “Confess your sins or faults to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Do we not implicitly ask for help when we share prayer requests? Isn’t this okay, or should we require the Holy Spirit to tell others what our specific prayer needs are so they can pray for those particular needs? You can see how ridiculous it could get if we never share with anyone or ask for help because we are expecting God to do it for us. Philippians 2:13 tells us that God provides the motivation and ability to do His will. Yet, verse 12 commands us to vigorously, perseveringly toil to work out the implications of our salvation. We are to do what we can.
There may indeed be times where the Lord directs us to keep quiet about our needs because He intends to do something special. However, I think this is the exception rather than the rule. Common sense says we should normally ask.
We are to be good stewards of the children God may give us.