Asking Correctly: Faith and Alignment in Prayer

Certainly! Here’s an exegetical sermon that explores Mark 11:22-24 and James 4:2-5, focusing on how to ask correctly in prayer.

### Title: **Asking Correctly: Faith and Alignment in Prayer**

#### Introduction
In our journey of faith, prayer is a vital aspect of our relationship with God. However, not all prayers are created equal. Today, we will explore Mark 11:22-24 and James 4:2-5, examining how to ask correctly in prayer and the importance of faith and alignment with God’s will.

#### Scripture Reading
- **Mark 11:22-24 (ESV)**: “And Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, “Be taken up and thrown into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.’”

- **James 4:2-5 (ESV)**: “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”

#### Exegesis of Mark 11:22-24
1. **Faith in God (Mark 11:22)**: Jesus emphasizes the necessity of faith. The phrase “Have faith in God” is a call to trust in God’s power and character. This faith is foundational for what follows—prayer that moves mountains.

2. **The Mountain Metaphor (Mark 11:23)**: Jesus uses hyperbole—“whoever says to this mountain” signifies overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles. It illustrates the power of faith when coupled with God’s authority. The challenge is not merely to ask but to believe deeply in God’s ability to act.

3. **The Assurance of Prayer (Mark 11:24)**: Here, Jesus assures that believing is pivotal. “Believe that you have received it” indicates a posture of faith that anticipates God’s response. This is an invitation to a confident expectation that aligns our desires with God’s will.

#### Exegesis of James 4:2-5
1. **Desires and Conflict (James 4:2)**: James identifies the root of conflict—unfulfilled desires. The desire for control and pleasure leads to strife. This passage challenges us to examine our motives in prayer. 

2. **The Importance of Asking (James 4:2)**: James straightforwardly states, “You do not have, because you do not ask.” It underscores the necessity of bringing our needs before God. However, it’s not just about asking; it’s about how we ask.

3. **Wrong Motives (James 4:3)**: James reveals that some prayers go unanswered because they are driven by selfish motives. The phrase “spend it on your pleasures” highlights the critical nature of our intentions. God desires a relationship that prioritizes His values over our worldly desires.

4. **Friendship with the World (James 4:4-5)**: James warns against a divided heart. The pursuit of worldly desires can lead to enmity with God. This admonition calls us to examine our allegiances and the alignment of our prayers with God’s kingdom.

#### Thematic Synthesis: Asking Correctly
1. **Faith and Trust**: Both passages stress the importance of faith. In Mark, faith empowers our prayers; in James, faith is the foundation for correct asking. Our confidence in God’s character shapes our requests.

2. **Alignment with God’s Will**: Asking correctly involves aligning our desires with God’s purposes. This means seeking His will above our own. Prayer is not just about our wants; it’s about engaging with God’s heart and desires.

3. **Examination of Motives**: We must regularly assess our motives. Are we asking for things that honor God and reflect His glory, or are we driven by selfish ambitions? True prayer seeks God’s kingdom first.

#### Practical Application
1. **Cultivate Faith**: Develop a robust faith through Scripture, prayer, and community. Trust in God’s promises and His ability to work in your life.

2. **Align Your Heart**: Spend time in prayer seeking God’s will. Ask Him to reveal any selfish desires and align your heart with His.

3. **Practice Humility

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