Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? (Luke 18:7)

ONE TRIP TO TARGET is all it takes. Push that red cart through the store, and soon enough you’ll hear it: “I want that! Will you buy it?” Not just once, but over and over again. The demands—whether from your precious two-year-old or another kid in the next aisle—quickly become exhausting. When “no” doesn’t seem to do the trick, most parents weigh their options: abandon the cart, grab the kid and head to the minivan, or give in?

I do my best to avoid rewarding my kids’ selfish persistence, but I have to admit, part of me wants to give them what they want. One of my greatest joys is giving my four boys gifts—especially if it’s something they’ve wanted for a while. I love that moment when they realize I’ve been paying attention.

How much more does God want us to come to him, to call out “day and night”? How much more does he care for his kids’ concerns? God doesn’t just tolerate our requests; he invites them, saying, “Come near to [me] and [I] will come near to you” (James 4:8).

God’s heart bends in our direction, waiting to lavish us with gifts of grace and mercy. Even when we come with selfish intent, our requests return overflowing with love. The answer may be unexpected, but never less than abundant—so just keep coming.

Talk to God about the desires of your heart; ask him to draw near.

Sarah E. Westfall resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with husband Ben and their four boys. Her elusive free time is spent reading, home remodeling, and writing.

© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.