When the angel asked this question of Nephi his answer was that he wanted spiritual knowledge confirming the message of his father. He had faith that the Lord would have him that knowledge. If I am asked that question at this time in prayer my answer would be that I want enough money for my family to be comfortable – at least $100K base salary. Do I have faith that the Lord would answer that prayer? Not so much. He has declared that the is enough and to spare and I believe that extends beyond food yields in farming. I also believe that the laborer is worthy of his hire and that after seeing first the kingdom of God and His righteousness all these things shall be added unto you and that if he then sell for riches they shall be granted unto you because he will seek then to do good rather than to gratify your pride or vain ambitions. In other words, my understanding of the gospel suggests that the Lord would be willing to grant me money because I feel I stand in compliance with the directives that have been given in that regard. Despite having reasons upon which to base my faith I have always been hesitant to ask for material blessings.
The other thing I notice is that the answer Nephi received may well have been of a different form and course than he anticipated. If I ask for more money, what might the answer look like? Would I be willing to accept the unexpected form (a job that requires me to move the family again for example)? I’m not sure how flexible I would be willing to be which gives me train to doubt.
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