Quote: 'Whether we like it or not, asking is the rule of the Kingdom!'
Charles Haddon Spurgeon.

    An Important Distinction:

Petition : Asking for ourselves.
Intercession : Asking on behalf of others.

    Two Common Problems/Questions:

1. Why should we ask God for things when He already knows our needs?
    Answer: God likes to be asked!
2. Why should I bother God with the petty details of my life?
    Answer: In a very important sense nothing is more important to God than the
    challenges, needs, etc., that we have.

    What About Unanswered Prayer?
Three Observations:

1. While we are in this life we stand under the mystery of the ways of God. (1 Cor. 13:12)
2. Many times our prayers are answered but we lack the "eyes" to see it.
3. Sin hinders our prayers.

    Persistent Petition...

1. A Compelling Illustration. (Luke 18:1-8)
    Three Contrasts:

A. Praying and Discouragement (v1)
B. The Widow and God's Elect (v2-5, 7)
C. The Judge and the Father (v6-8)

2. An Open Invitation. (Matt. 7:7-11)
    An Invitation to...

A. Pray (v7-8)
    1. 'Ask'... For What We Want.
    2. 'Seek'... For What We Miss.
    3. 'Knock'... To Gain Access.

B. Keep Praying (v7-8)
    1. Keep Asking.
    2. Keep Seeking.
    3. Keep Knocking.

C. Experience God's Goodness (v9-11)
    1. God Is Not Mean Or Deceptive (v9-10)
    2. God Has Good In Store For Us (v11)

Here's What We Need To Remember: Asking is the rule of the Kingdom... Keep praying... Don't quit... God wants good things for you!