Five Reasons We Have to Ask God For What We Want

The Bible tells us in Matthew that God knows what we need before we do.  God can bless at us at any time, in any place, and in any situation.  Why?  Because God loves us.
 

"... for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, 

before ye ask him." 
- Matthew 6:8 (KJV)

The Bible also tells us in James that we have to ask God for what what we want before we can get.  So if He knows before we do, why does he require us to ask?  Below are 5 reasons why God wants you to ask for what you want before you can get:

1. He wants a real relationship with you.  Genuine relationships rely on two-way communication.
2. He wants you to know that all good things come from God!  Not from: yourself, others, fate, luck, nor because of anything going on in the world.
3. He truly wants to meet all your needs and bless you with more than that!  You must be aware of what you need before you know that you are blessed, not just physical needs but emotional and spiritual as well.
4. He wants you to grow strong in your faith and be a witness to others.  Acknowledging God has blessed you will aid you in this.  You have to be strong to resist temptation.
5. He wants you to trust him.  When He answers, you know you can rely on His promises.

"... yet ye have not, because ye ask not."- James 4:2 (KJV)

Other places in the Bible, it tells us we must be patient and persistent in our prayers.  Just because God does not provide an answer quickly, does not mean he will not.  Perhaps it is not yet time for you to have that particular thing as you are not mature enough to handle it, have the wrong attitude in asking for it, or He plans to use the answer to help  others in addition to yourself when it happens.  Yes, God knows what you need, but he also knows when you need it and when you do not.