Those who aspire to be disciples of Jesus often become so used to giving as a way of life that they find it embarrassing to ask for favours from others. While giving may sometimes hurt, it still enables the giver to feel in control of the situation; the giver is the one who controls the resources. Asking someone else for a gift or favour, on the other hand, involves humbling yourself and giving up control. This is how Paul asked for a favour in his letter to Philemon:
I am bold enough in Christ to tell you what you should do, but instead for the sake of love I plead with you. I, Paul, an old man, and now a prisoner of Christ Jesus, plead with you for my child… I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that your generosity would not be forced, but voluntary… If then you consider me to be a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me… Yes, brother, do this favour for me for the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. I write to you with full confidence that you will comply, knowing that you will do even more than what I ask.
It takes courage to ask for a big favour, a sizeable donation or a big effort that involves a substantial sacrifice. If the “ask” is a bold one, then the risk of rejection might be high. Nonetheless, no-one can live an entirely independent life; there will always be times when you need help from other people, and if you want to fulfil God’s plan for your life then you have to be willing to ask others for help just as you have to be willing to be generous in giving help to others.