Be careful about what you pray for

​7-29-22
Be careful about what you pray for
Today's devotion is based on Luke 11:11-13, [Jesus said] "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
Be careful about what you pray for is a fairly common expression. What is wrong with it is that it gives the impression that God may somehow give you something bad just because you prayed for it, that he is waiting to punish you for praying foolishly.
God is your Father in heaven. He wants only the best for you. Since God knows everything, he knows what is best for you, even if you don't think it is. And since he loves you, he has figured out how to give you the best.
So, what is the best thing we can ask for? As I  thought about it, I concluded that the best thing to ask for is for God to give the Holy Spirit. God uses the Holy Spirit to bring us to faith. He sends the Holy Spirit to keep us in the faith through his Word. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter, who ensures we are okay when life is difficult.
Please pray with me, Heavenly Father, since you know what is best for me, now and in the future; please send me your Holy Spirit so that I can live the life you want me to live. In Jesus' blessed name, I pray. Amen.