Even when you do ask God, you do not receive anything. That is because you ask for the wrong reason. You just want to use these things to make yourselves happy.
James 4:3 EASY
One of the reasons many people experience spiritual destitution is their failure to pray. The latter part of verse of James chapter 4 says: “You do not have because you do not ask God”. However, the truth is that it is possible for a man to ask and not receive anything from God. One reason for this, as discussed in Proverbs 28:9, is when a person turns a deaf ear to God’s instructions. The prayer of the disobedient is doomed for disappointment. Another critical issue we need to watch out for when we pray is the motive.
So, the bible says: “Even when you do ask God, you do not receive anything. That is because you ask for the wrong reason…”. God does not answer many prayers due to wrong motives. Even if the precondition of praying to God and not someone else is met, if the motive is wrong, it will not be answered. That the bible uses the word “when” may have the idea that they usually pray. But as long as their intention is selfish and does not glorify God, it is a prayer amiss. If the motive, purpose, or intention is to use what you’re asking God for in sensual pleasure, it is a detestable prayer.
The sacrifice of the wicked is exceedingly disgusting and abhorrent [to the Lord]–how much more when he brings it with evil intention?
Proverbs 21:27 AMPC
God will not involve Himself in any matter that does not bring glory to His name. So, if all we are asking is just because of ourselves – in order to please ourselves; when we do not give much attention to the Father’s will even in our requests, such prayer cannot get the Father’s approval. If God finds the sacrifice and offering of the wicked exceedingly disgusting and abhorrent, how much more is their prayer?
Meanwhile, it is important to note that as good as they are, fasting and praying does not guaranty the answers. It does not even matter much whether you pray on a mountain or in a valley.
Religious activities that do not glorify God are of no interest to Him. Likewise, those that does not draw us closer to Him. Rather, He wants us to live a holy life, a life of obedience and complete reverence for Him. We must live the kind of life that makes Him happy through the help of the Holy Spirit.