“THE SECRET TO UNHINDERED PRAYERS”

22 “And whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.”

1 John 3:22

In today’s verse, John is not saying that God will give anything we ask of Him, per se. His point is, that when we cultivate a loving fellowship with God, we will ask for the things that line up with His will (1 John 5:14-15). And when we do, we are guaranteed He is listening.

There are two points worth discussing. First, greater knowledge of God’s will yields prayers that are in sync with God’s purposes. Second, obedience to God focuses on pleasing Him, not simply benefitting from Him.

Answered prayers come from obedience, and obedience results from love. There’s a right and a wrong way to obey. We may keep God’s commandments out of compulsion, just like the other son in the Parable of the Prodigal Son and Cain. On the other hand, we can keep God’s demands because we love Him, just like Joseph and David. If we live to please God, He will do things for us, i.e., answered prayers.

The person who maintains a healthy relationship with God through his obedience and love also experiences unhindered prayers. However, this statement does not mean our obedience and love are keys to getting what we want. Instead, they prove that we have fellowship with God.

Obedience, or keeping God's commandments, is crucial for uninterrupted prayers. Timing is also important. Praying as a believer who already has a relationship with God is different from praying as a sinner who is asking God for mercy. If someone wants to repent and have faith in Christ, they must be sincere. While obedience is not required for salvation, it is necessary after receiving God's grace and forgiveness.

7 “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

John 15:7

Do your prayers align with God’s will? Do you live in obedience to His word? Do you genuinely love Him?

Pursue the Savior today!

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