And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight. – Mark 10:51
Introduction
There are times when we know exactly what we want God to do, and there are times when we do not even know what the right answer should be. Bartimaeus knew what he wanted. When Jesus asked him, “What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?” he answered, “Lord, that I might receive my sight.”
For we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us. Romans 8:26
These passages are not contradictory. Together, they teach us to pray with honesty. When we have clarity, we should pray clearly. When we lack clarity, thus we should depend on the Holy Spirit in both ways. Part of the reason we pray is so that our mind can be fruitful and be able to comprehend the things God has freely given to us as believers.
Vague expectation is hoping for change without clearly identifying:
- What you are trusting God for
- Why you desire it
- What Scripture says about it
- What action may be required from you
- How you will recognise the answer
When You Know What You Need
When your need is clear, present it clearly to God. Hannah specifically asked God for a son. Bartimaeus asked to receive his sight. Nehemiah requested permission, letters and building materials from the king. Specific prayer helps us to pray intentionally, prepare responsibly and recognise God’s answer. If you are trusting God for employment, prepare your CV and apply for opportunities. If you desire spiritual growth, create time for prayer and Scripture. Our preparation should agree with our expectation.
When You Do Not Know What to Pray
Romans 8:26 reminds us that human understanding is limited. Sometimes we know that we need help, but we do not know what form that help should take. In such moments, we can pray:
Father, I do not fully understand this situation. Let Your will be done. Give me wisdom, direct my steps and help me to recognise Your leading.
This is not an empty or careless prayer. It is a prayer of surrender. The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes according to God’s will. Therefore, we do not have to manufacture an answer when God has not yet given us clarity.
Move from Vague to Definite Expectation
To develop clear expectation:
- Identify what you are trusting God for.
- Find biblical truth concerning the situation.
- Present your request honestly to God.
- Take every responsible step within your power.
- Release the method, timing and outcome to God.
Conclusion
Vague expectation merely hopes that something will happen. Definite expectation identifies the need, presents it to God, prepares responsibly and remains attentive to His direction. God does not require us to understand every detail before we pray. However, when clarity is available, we should not hide indecision behind spiritual language. Be clear about your desire, intentional in your preparation and completely surrendered to God’s wisdom.
