This study was first taught on May 10, 2011

Topic: ASKing (6): Knocking (2)

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Background
The last time we met, we began to study “knocking’; the last of the components that make up the acronym ASK. We said that knocking connotes, beseeching, imploring, pressing in, pleading, importunity, and intercession; and conveys the idea of banging on a door that is locked with the aim of getting someone to open it. This imagery is captured by the Lord’s illustration in Luke 11:5-10, of a man who opened his door to his friend, not because he is a friend, but because he banged on the door and would not let up, until it was opened unto him. This essentially means that ‘knocking’ is praying until something happens! We noted that knocking is the option available to those who want to change the status quo, and those who are dealing with unyielding conditions.

We noted that praying until something happens requires that we do not give up, faint, nor rest, until the door we are banging on is open; for only those who keep on knocking can be certain of doors being open unto them by God. We saw that to be able to successfully knock with the result of doors being opened, we must possess certain attributes. We noted that these attributes include; persistence, fervency, and righteousness. In this regard, we observed that while we should be persistent in our knocking; we must strike a balance with good sense. Thus, we saw that it is good sense to know when God will not open a door; and that failing to stop knocking when this point is reached, can be dangerous, with negative consequences. We also noted that doors are not open to people whose ‘knocking’ is timid, hesitant, and lukewarm; but to those whose banging is vibrant, consistent, and energetic. Finally, we saw that doors are open by God only to those who are righteous. Sinners who persist and are fervent in seeking God’s blessing, without first becoming righteous (being born of the Spirit of God), will discover that their knocking will be in vain.

Scripture Text(s)
Matthew 7:7-8
Tonight, we want shall see other attributes that are needed for our knocking to be effective. May the Holy Spirit help us to develop these attributes, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
There are some problems and challenges that will not yield even with persistence, fervency, and righteousness. These problems and challenges remain daunting in spite of all that is thrown at them. To cause doors of victory to be open unto us in dealing with these knotty matters, we need other attributes and weapons.
Mark 10:46-52; Judges 8:4-7; Acts 12:1-16; Ephesians 6:13; Hebrews 10:23; 12:3-4; Luke 18:2-8; Hebrews 10:32-39; Romans 5:3-4; Mark 9:14-29; Daniel 10:1-14; Ephesians 6:18; Acts 16:23-26; Psalm 100:4; 50:14-15; 1 Peter 5:10.

Conclusion
If doors of victory are to be opened unto us; and, if we are to experience breakthroughs over stubborn issues; we would need to develop perseverance and patience; and, engage more in fasting and all manner of prayer (including praise and thanksgiving).

Perseverance enables a person to endure hardship, and not give up. It enables a person to keep pursuing even when he is tired; and it ensures that we hold on to God, in spite of the seeming incapacitation that we experience in life. Perseverance also ensures that we are not discouraged; and it is developed in us by God, as He brings trials and tribulations our way so that we can endure and hold fast to Him in faith and absolute trust! In certain cases, the issues may have been resolved, but the time for manifestation may not yet be. At such times, our patience become a vital attribute with which we remain steadfast in God, and wait upon Him, regardless of the seeming unyielding outcome, for in due course, every door will be flung open unto you! Patience is that attribute that does not make us fret or be anxious when things are not going our way, and seems like time is against us. Through patience we are able to wait for God.

When, however, we are faced with situations which seem to defy every solution, we must in addition turn to weapons which God has made available to His children: fasting, prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. The attributes of persistence, perseverance, and patience; in combination with the weapons of fasting, praise, and thanksgiving; will cause every door of opposition and resistance to be thrown wide open (Psalm 24:7-10).

Persistence, perseverance, and patience, are like the three legs of a three-legged stool. Without one leg, the stool will be wobbly, and eventually, will not stand. If our knocking is to be effective, all three attributes must be developed in our lives. Indeed, our fasting, prayer, praise, and thanksgiving, will not be effective if these three attributes are not in our lives. So, as we prepare to knock on some old doors that have resisted us for years, let us also develop the attributes of persistence, perseverance, and patience; and employ the weapons of fasting, praise, and thanksgiving!

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