Today, I wish to speak of a subject that will have affected most people. In difficult situations many turn their head to the Lord for a answer or a solution to a problem. The question that follows is usually, did God really listen to me? Is he answering my calls? The answer is most definitely, yes.
I was once told that it does not matter where you are, wether it be the worlds largest cathedral or a small storage cupboard, when you talk to the Lord he will listen. The sad thing is that this occasionally turns peoples faith, questioning God’s existence and asking why does he do these things.
It is important in these situations to stay strong to your faith for there is no partiality with God, you can not half-heartedly have faith or you are indeed treasuring yourself up for wrath in the day of wrath and revelation (Romans 2:11, Romans 2:5)
The first reference to point towards confirmation that God listens to us is John 16:24. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. We usually over expect a certain answer from the Lord though, the answer many sometimes be no or something we fail to understand.
The answer that is given is always what is best for us and works towards what we need and not necessarily what we want. In order for God to hear us we need to be his, again through repentance and baptism for he who belongs to God hears what God says” (John 8:47).
Unconfessed Sins also act as a barrier for God hearing us. In having these Sins unconfessed God can not even hear our prayers. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear. (Isaiah 59:1-2)
It is also important that we put God first, Ezekiel 14:3 says Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts, and put before them that which causes them to stumble into iniquity. Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by them? An Idol can be anything that you are putting before God and consider more important than him. This will also act as a barrier to him.
The final point I wish to make is in regards to worship and reading your Bible. It is important to be reading it frequently for If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given to you” (John 15:7)
Baptist Journal 