Rooted in Christ: The Courage to Ask

Scriptures: Genesis 18:20–32 | Psalm 138 | Colossians 2:12–14 | Luke 11:1–13

Have you ever hesitated to pray because you weren’t sure what to say—or if God was even listening? You’re not alone. But today’s readings remind us of something powerful: When we are rooted in Christ, we can live and pray with courage, confidence, and deep peace. Being rooted in Christ means our lives draw strength from His mercy, and our prayers rise not from fear, but from faith.

Bold Prayer Starts with Deep Roots

In Genesis 18, we find Abraham doing something that might make us uncomfortable—negotiating with God. Six times he asks, “What if…?” pressing God for mercy on behalf of a broken city.

He’s not arrogant. He’s bold—because he’s rooted in relationship with God. Abraham’s courage to ask comes from trust. He knows God is just, but also merciful. He knows God's heart.

Being rooted in Christ means we can come to God in the same way—not because we have all the right words, but because we know who God is.

Praise Grows from a Rooted Heart

Psalm 138 offers us the words of someone who has experienced God’s faithfulness:

“On the day I called, you answered me; you increased my strength of soul.” (v. 3)

The psalmist praises not because everything is perfect, but because God is faithful even in the midst of trouble. He knows God's love isn't fragile. It doesn't fade in hardship. When we're rooted in Christ, praise isn't seasonal—it's steady.

What Anchors Our Identity? (Colossians 2)

Paul reminds us of the foundation of our faith in Colossians 2:

  • We were buried with Christ in baptism.
  • We were raised with Him through faith.
  • Our sins? Forgiven.
  • Our failures? Canceled.

To be rooted in Christ is to live from that identity—not constantly chasing God's approval, but already standing in it. The cross didn’t just cancel our debt—it planted us in grace.

That’s why we can pray with boldness. We’re not approaching a stranger—we’re already at home in God’s love.

The Courage to Ask (Luke 11:1–13)

Jesus’ disciples ask, “Lord, teach us to pray.” And what does Jesus offer? Not just a script, but a promise:

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened.”

Jesus points us to a generous Father who listens, responds, and delights to give good gifts—especially the gift of the Holy Spirit. This kind of praying doesn’t come from fear. It comes from being rooted in who God is and who we are in Him.

Rooted People Pray Differently

When you are rooted in Christ:

  • You pray like Abraham—with boldness.
  • You worship like the psalmist—with trust.
  • You live like Paul teaches—with freedom.
  • You ask like Jesus encourages—with confidence.

So let your roots go deep. Deep into mercy. Deep into grace. Deep into Christ. When the storms come—and they will—your soul will remain steady.

Because when you’re rooted in Christ, you already have what you need to stand, to pray, and to live.

Have a thought or prayer request? Leave a comment below. Let’s walk this rooted life together.


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