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God's Goodness in Answering Prayers

· Jerwin Arnado

Preached at the Victorias worship service, July 27, 2025.

“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?… How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” — Matthew 7:9–11 (NIV)

Main idea: God answers prayers not just because we ask, but because He is good, generous, and trustworthy like a loving Father. He always gives what is best — even when it’s not what we expect.

I. God Is a Good Father, Not a Distant Master

“How much more will your Father in heaven…” (v. 11)

  • God’s nature is relational — He invites us to come as children. Not to a boss, a judge, or a master.
  • The contrast between human and divine parenting: flawed vs. perfect.
  • Trust begins with understanding God’s character, not just His power.

Supporting verse: Romans 8:15 — “You have received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’”

II. God Gives What Is Good, Not Always What Is Asked

“Will give him a stone?” “Will give him a snake?” (vv. 9–10)

  • A stone can look like bread. A snake can look like a fish — God is not fooled by appearances.
  • He answers with wisdom and care, not impulse or obligation.
  • Sometimes a “no” is divine protection, not punishment.

Think of a child asking for candy at every meal — a loving parent says “no” because they care for the child’s health.

Supporting verse: Psalm 84:11 — “No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

III. God Answers Prayer Because He Delights in Giving

“Give good gifts to those who ask Him.” (v. 11)

  • God doesn’t just tolerate prayer — He delights in our asking.
  • We must ask with faith, knowing we are heard by a generous King.
  • God’s generosity is rooted in His nature, not our performance.

Supporting verse: James 1:17 — “Every good and perfect gift is from above…”

Practical Applications

  • Come to God confidently — you are approaching your Father, not a judge.
  • Don’t stop praying because the answer seems delayed — God is never late.
  • Reframe disappointment in prayer: perhaps God is sparing you or redirecting you toward better.

Conclusion

Jesus wants us to know that our prayers don’t disappear into silence. They reach the heart of a Father who loves to give good gifts. Trust Him — not just for what you ask, but for how He answers.

Reflection Questions

  1. Do you trust God’s heart even when the answer isn’t what you hoped for?
  2. How does knowing God as “Father” change the way you pray?
  3. What prayer can you renew today with fresh faith in His goodness?