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I used to think that I could ask God for only the things God has promised, so I spent many days hunting for promises or trying to make some promise fit my need. In fact, there are many promises and indeed one to fit almost any need. Further, the time spent hunting them in the Bible is never wasted time.

However, I have a new way of looking at things that helps me be more constant in my looking to God as my Source.

James wrote that "Every good and perfect gift is from above, comes from the Father of lights, who has no variableness, fluctuation, or instability, or even a hint of turning against you. By God's own choice, He made us His offspring through the word of truth. For this reason everyone should be quick to listen, slow to talk, and slow to get angry, because human anger is not right with God" (see James 1:17-20, paraphrased by me).

This means to me that everything, every last thing I need or could think of wanting, would come from God. My boss, my banker, my parents, my Santa Clause, all of them are mere tools in God's hands to supply my needs.

• Everything good comes from God. A new job; a new truck, car, or transmission; higher paying contracts; a new home; all at God's hands.
• Everything, happiness, peace, health, good relationships, obedient children, everything comes from God.
• Healing for me or my relative, for my pocketbook or my emotions, all comes from God.

So rather than worrying or envying, I should come to God as my "Daddy" many times a day for whatever I think I want. This coming all day has the added benefit of keeping my mind on God. It also enables me better to be with other humans, to be quick to listen and slow to talk or get angry, as James wrote.