Have you ever prayed and didn’t see results? I believe the Bible teaches that God always answers our prayers. Sometime His answer is “yes” and we see His visible provision. Sometimes His answer is “no” because our prayers are not aligned with His plans. Sometimes His answer is “not yet” because the timing is not right to answer that prayer. But in every case, your Heavenly Father answers prayer.
There are, however, some things that can hinder your prayers from being answered. These things restrict your prayers and render them ineffective:
Wrong motives
“And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong — you want only what will give you pleasure,” (James 4.3 NLT).
Secret sin
“If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened,” (Psalm 66.18 NLT).
Dishonoring relationships
“In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered,” (1 Peter 3.7 NLT).
Craig Etheredge, author of this article, is one of the speakers at this year’s National Disciple Making Forum. Learn more and register here.
Idols in our hearts
“Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?,” (Ezekiel 14.3 NLT).
Lack of faith
“He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith,” (Mark 6.5-6 NIV).
Lack of forgiveness
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you,” (Matthew 6.14-15 NLT).
Written by Craig Etheredge
This blog was originally posted on discipleFIRST’s blog, which you can access here. Used by permission.
Craig is a gifted communicator, author, and Bible teacher. Craig and his family moved to Colleyville, Texas in July 2007 to serve as lead pastor of First Baptist Church where he currently serves. In addition to leading the local church, Craig is involved in the local community serving on the Board of Directors for Baylor Hospital, Grapevine, Board of Directors of Christian Counseling Associates, Mission Board SBTC, Chaplain for the Colleyville Police Department, and football chaplain for Birdville High School. He has a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Craig met his wife, Liz, in the fifth grade and they have two daughters, Leah Beth and Abbie.
Photo by Alex Woods on Unsplash