I must be careful in my prayers never to overask anything of the Lord. The mother of James and John asked Jesus that her sons might sit in the two most important places in His Kingdom: at His right hand and the left (Matthew 20:20–21). Jesus’ reply was sharp, “You do not know what you are asking!” (v. 22). Salome had overstepped her bounds; she had overasked!
I always know when I have overasked because it means asking for more than the Lord has explicitly promised. Jesus had promised each of His disciples a throne (Matthew 19:28), but this was not enough for James and John; they wanted the throne on each side of Jesus. That was too much and Jesus had to reprimand them.
To overask means to yield to the ever subtle voice of self, which is willing to spiritualize anything just so it can have its way. It means to want that little bit extra (just a teeny bit!) that self craves, and all in the guise of dedication to God’s service. God promises, “I will supply your needs,” and we plead, “And a few comforts too?” God says, “I will make you a blessing,” and we beg, “And well known along with it?”
The one who overasks wants to “commercialize” on God. He is like a beggar who ups his demand when he sees the large number of coins in the giver’s hand. He is like Lot, who was not satisfied merely to be rescued from Sodom but wanted to pick the site of safety after the deliverance (Genesis 19:20).
To all profiteers in prayer, Jesus has only one word: “You do not know what you ask.” No, indeed, we do not. For if I overask I am opening myself to a Pandora’s box of things beyond my good—and even my safety. I am much better off when I receive what Jesus has promised, and not an atom more!
“Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am” (Philippians 4:11).
Daily with the King 