The Promise Of Prayer

The Promise of Prayer

In those days when you pray, I will listen. Jeremiah 29:12

GOD SPOKE SOME HARSH WORDS through his prophet Jeremiah, but the dark clouds of those prophecies were lined with rays of light. He promised to give his people a future and a hope, assuring them he was for them, not against them. Then he promised that he would listen to their prayers “in those days.” They would enter into a time of favor, when God’s ears were open to their requests and he would answer them in love. He promised a fruitful prayer life for his people.

We still live in those days. The time of restoration that God had declared happened long ago, and the coming of the Messiah centuries later ushered in a season of God’s favor and life in the power of his Spirit. Though God had apparently shut his ears for a season of widespread rebellion—“in those days” implies a period of unanswered prayer beforehand—his ears are forever open to the redeemed. He had already promised to be close to those who call on him in truth (Psalm 145:18) and respond to the prayers of the destitute (Psalm 102:17). Through Jesus, we can go ahead and count on his “yes” (2 Corinthians 1:20). We are invited to participate in his divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). There is nothing that separates us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). He is forever “for us” and not against us, lavishing on us the blessings of his Son and much more (Romans 8:31-32). He eagerly listens to our prayers.

That’s not what our consciences tell us when we sin, struggle to find words to pray, become discouraged, and wonder if our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling. If any hints of separation from God seep into your conscience that way, simply confess any hindrances and move on. Believe what he says about open ears and open heavens, regardless of what you feel or see. God has promised to listen, and only doubt can convince us that he doesn’t. Release those doubts, embrace bold faith, and pray until your heart believes. God is welcoming you and your requests into his throne room and will advise, redirect, and answer with great pleasure in these days.

Be much in secret prayer. Converse less with man and more with God.