But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added. -Matthew 6:33
The difference between praying as a servant of God and praying as a son of God is the nature of the relationship with God. Sons of God are a part of God's family. They've been adopted, and they find their identity in Him. They share in the same fellowship and intimacy with the Father as Jesus does. A servant, on the other hand, is focused on duty and obedience. Their relationship with God is more transactional than relational. Someone can receive salvation and opt for a transactional relationship with God. Their focus is on fulfilling obligations. "I've been serving on the usher board for years in my church. My mom did years before that, and my grandmother did years before my mom." Sound familiar? This is not to say that servants don't love God; they do. When they approach their relationship with God out of obligation, duty, and works, they miss out on the intimacy of fellowship with Him.
When sons cultivate a deeper relationship with God, they begin to experience His abiding presence. Discerning His voice becomes easier. The scripture says that "For as many are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." (Romans 8:14) Therefore, when we approach Him in prayer, we don't give Him a laundry list of wishes and demands. We seek Him first. This means we seek what's in His heart. "God, what is on your heart for me to pray? Who would you like me to pray for today? How can I bring glory to your name?" Approaching Him in this way puts Him first, and your situations second. Pray what's on His heart first, and He'll take care of your requests. Matthew 6:8 states that He knows what we need before we ask, but as a son of God, our focus shifts from selfish to selfless.
Servants, because of their obligatory approach to God, often lack a deep understanding of God's heart towards matters. This means that when they come to Him with their list of things and never seek His heart, they never approach their things with His strength. Their obedience is more out of duty than reverence and surrender. The Lord wants our obedience, but not in a sterile, task-driven manner. He wants our obedience to come out of a heart burning with love for Him. Beloved, are you seeking His heart first, or are you bringing your lists of prayer requests to Him? Remember, His abiding presence in the life of His sons engages them to pray His heart over their situations.
Prayer Father, we desire to be guided by you. We seek your heart and your mind regarding all matters, including our own. We prioritize your Kingdom above all else. In Jesus' name. Amen
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