James 4:2 "You have not because you ask not."This week, I wanted to share my Christmas party story with you. Every year, we attend a Christmas party at my husband's workplace, and at the end, there's a drawing for prizes with over 20 baskets to be won. This is our third year. As they drew ticket numbers and people claimed their prizes, I felt like we'd never been lucky enough to take home one of those cute baskets.Then, this verse popped into my mind: "You have not because you ask not." So, I began praying to God, asking, "Could I please have one this year, God?" After the prayer, as I watched people claiming their prizes, I thought, there are still plenty of baskets left; maybe He's saving the best for me until the end.” so I held onto hope. But as the drawing continued and one basket after another was given away until the last, yet my number hadn't been called, I started thinking, “Maybe there's a reason for this. Perhaps we already have enough stuff at home, and we're actually trying to declutter.” Nonetheless, I continued to trust God 100%, knowing He has His reasons, regardless of whether my prayer was answered or not. About 15 minutes later, I turned around and saw my husband holding a basket. He walked toward me and handed it to me. His coworker had given it to him. I was surprised but also not surprised. I was surprised because last year, that coworker was very disappointed when they didn't win. But now, they won and are giving it away? Yet, I wasn't surprised because I know this is God's work. He answered my prayer and proved to me that “you have not because you ask not.” Even though it didn't happen in the way I anticipated, I got what I asked for.This basket wasn't just any basket; it was curated for my two little ones, filled with books and adorable holiday socks, exactly what I wanted for them. There were many baskets, but some contained items like wine or self-care products, which I don't use much right now.I was amazed at how God answered my prayer right then and there, providing me with the best basket for my kids. Then I thought, when your prayers align with God's will, you can trust that you'll receive what's best for you because He always knows your heart.Let this be a reminder to pray boldly, talk to God, and ask Him for what's really on your heart, even the little things in life that you don't think are worth asking for. If things don't happen the way you expected or on the timeline you hoped for, don't give up or lose hope. Keep trusting Him and moving forward. In His perfect timing, God knows exactly when to step in and fulfill the desires of your heart.
