I have a little to add to this conversation. I think that in this life we even have to learn to trust in God so totally that with ALL our needs - EVERYTHING - we learn to trust in Him to provide. We expect so much in this country and tend to forget how the early believers lived as well as how many still live across the world. We should be grateful when he does provide for our needs, but sometimes going without for a little while ALSO teaches us lessons of trust and faith. Like Paul, I know what it is like to abound and also to not have two nickels to rub together. I know what it's like to not eat for four days because I had no money and I know too well what it's like to eat too much. But in every thing we learn to trust God and to be content. Paul said that in whatever state he was, he learned to be content. In those times of need is when our faith is tested and, when tested, it grows stronger.
Coming to Jesus with all my needs is so intimate! There are less walls between us. The contentment is growing for me.
I did do this in the past BTW with God playing Santa Clause. I would pray things like. Please let so and so approve of me and what I am saying and agree with me. I left this need behind. It is very liberating.