by Dr. Muriel Larson Why do some people get their prayers answered--and I don't? Have you ever wondered about that? Have you ever wished that you could have a closer touch with God?
Let's look at them. Repentance is necessary. Second Chronicles 7:14 says, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." Obviously sin keeps prayers from getting answered. However, did you know that bitterness, resentment, bad temper, anger, and harsh words can come between us and the Bible says such things grieve the Holy Spirit. How can we make things right? First John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." When we are cleansed, we can look for answered prayers. Righteousness refers to a daily, steady walk with the Lord. We try not to let anything come between Him and us. God had first place in Elijah's heart, as He probably does in the hearts of those we ask for prayer. In their lives we see Christ; when others see Him in us, they'll be asking us for prayer.
Mark was sorry for things he had done wrong, so he asked the Lord to forgive him. When he finished praying, guess what Mark still held in his heart? He had bitterness, hostility, and anger...and unforgiveness toward a member of his church who had offended him. Then he wondered why he still didn't feel right with God! Is it hard to forgive some people for the way they have hurt us? Sure it is--for us! However, I have found it possible to do so by holding such destructive, self-centered feelings up to my Lord and saying, "Lord, take these hurtful things. I don't want them any more. Cleanse me. I just want your peace, joy, and love. I forgive everybody!" When I feel God's peace, I know I can pray. Obedience is necessary.
Obedience is the trademark of a righteous person. Obedience entails more than just conforming to a nice little set of cut-and-dried rules. It is part of being tuned into the Holy Spirit. That is where doing "those things that are pleasing in his sight" comes in. God's command also lies in principles His Word sets forth, such as "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). Obedience to God isn't hard when we truly love Him and others. Sincerity is necessary. Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." John Bunyan said, "Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the soul to God, through Christ in the strength and assistance of the Spirit, for such things as God has promised." Agreement is helpful. Jesus said, "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." Persistence is helpful. Ephesians 6:18 says, "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all saints." D. L. Moody said, "I have often said I had rather be able to pray like Daniel than preach like Gabriel." Faith is necessary. Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." When I'm praying, I often claim the promise that Jesus gave His followers: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours" (Mark 11:24). Do you really believe God can work in the lives of unsaved and backslidden loved ones, in answer to your prayers? Do you believe God can help you work out your problems, help you get a job, pays the bills, get along with cantankerous relatives, co-workers, or neighbors? Then stand back and watch God work as you pray! It will thrill you! Copyright © 2006 Stanley Popovich. All rights reserved. |