I have often thought of my relationship with God as a game of, "What Do I Have for You?" If I fast and pray, the Lord has something beautiful waiting for me. I just need to ask for it. I want a new car for my family. Nope, not a new car. I want new equipment so that my children can further their filming careers. Nope, not new equipment. I want new books to read and time to read them. Nope, not new books or more time. I want a deeper relationship with the Lord and a steadfast love that takes me through all the obstacles of life. That's it. That's what I want to give to you.
Once I have confidence in my relationship with the Lord, I find that I don't need or want the other material things. My family's cars are fine. The equipment my children use for their projects is fine. I have both books and time. Anything above and beyond isn't necessary, it's just more. The Lord has always drawn me toward less of this world and more toward Himself.
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks will receive, and those who seek will find, and to those who knock the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who would give a stone to his son if he asks for bread or hand him a snake if he asks for a fish? Matt 7: 7-9