Have you seen the viral video about the airline that granted passengers’ Christmas wishes?

Inspiring, isn’t it? Does it make you want to take a flight soon? Will you be looking for a special Santa kiosk near your departure gate?

Kudos to WestJet for pulling off such a great surprise. I don’t want to diminish their efforts. I’ve watched the video several times, and it brings a smile (and tears) to my face every time. But, it also got me wondering…

How often do we ask for results from God? When we pray, do we expect God to be like Santa, listening to (and hopefully granting) our wish list?

What about Mark 11:24? So I tell you to believe that you have received the things you ask for in prayer, and God will give them to you.

We need to broaden the scope of what God is teaching us through this verse, which is sandwiched between verses on faith and forgiveness. In simple terms, when your faith is pure, including generous forgiveness as God forgives, sure, you will get what you ask in prayer, because your prayers become about a relationship, not results. It’s not about getting what you want. It’s about getting what God wants. And in order to know what that is, you have to know God.

A thriving, faith-filled relationship with God requires humility. And if you’re only trying to be humble and obedient to ultimately get what you want, you’re missing the point. Of course, it’s a process. We’re continually setting ourselves aside and inviting God to remind us who we are in him instead of who we want to be.

Good thing God knows us well…better than we know ourselves.

The question is: How well do you know God? Beyond the how and why you’re asking whatever you’re asking, consider the Who you’re asking.

Ask for God. You’ll receive God. Every single time.