Why Your Prayers Are Not Answered
Why Your Prayers Are Not Answered
Luke 18:9-14, James 4:3, Matthew 6:14-15
How Are You Approaching God in Prayer?
When you pray, do you do so with humility and sincerity of heart, or do you come with pride, entitlement, and self-righteousness? Many prayers go unanswered because of how we approach God, not because God is unwilling to hear us.
James 4:6:
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Common Mistakes That Hinder Prayers
1. Instructing God in Prayer
Arrogance in prayer sounds like:
“God, You must do this for me!”
“Lord, by this time next year, I must have my own…”
“I’ve been fasting and speaking in tongues, so You must answer me!”
Why It’s Wrong:
This is self-righteousness, which boasts in itself rather than depending on God’s mercy. You become like the Pharisee in Luke 18:11-12, who prayed with pride instead of humility.
2. Approaching God With Pride and Arrogance
Sometimes, we blame God for our misfortunes without considering our own role in the situation.
Psalm 51:1-4: David acknowledged his sin and asked for mercy instead of accusing God.
3. Seeing Human Beings as Your Enemy
Wishing evil upon others, holding grudges, or blaming people for your problems grieves the Holy Spirit.
John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” Our true enemy is Satan, not people.
4. Comparing Yourself to Others
Thinking, “Why are others prospering while I’m struggling?” leads to envy and doubt.
Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” God chooses grace over works.
5. Combining God With Alternatives
Trusting in God while also seeking other options (e.g., charms, fortune-telling, ungodly practices) grieves the Spirit.
Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
6. Crying Instead of Praying in Faith
While crying can express emotion, it does not move God unless it is accompanied by faith.
Mark 5:25-34: The woman with the issue of blood received healing not because she cried, but because she acted in faith.
7. Holding Unforgiveness in Your Heart
Unforgiveness blocks your prayers and grieves the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
How to Pray Effectively
1. Approach God With Humility
Acknowledge your sins and unworthiness, like the tax collector in Luke 18:13:
- “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Psalm 51:17: “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart You, God, will not despise.”
2. Rely on God’s Mercy, Not Your Works
Like the Centurion in Matthew 8:8, admit:
- “Lord, I do not deserve to have You come under my roof.”
This attitude draws God’s attention.
3. Pray the Prayer of Faith
Faith moves God, not tears or emotions.
Hebrews 11:6: “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”
4. Forgive Others
Before you pray, forgive anyone who has wronged you.
Mark 11:25: “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
5. Be Sincere and Specific
God values sincerity over long or repetitive prayers. Speak from your heart.
Matthew 6:7: “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.”
6. Trust God Completely
- Do not rely on alternatives or backup plans. Fully surrender to God’s will.
What God Wants to See in Your Prayer Life
A Humble Heart:
- Recognize that you are a sinner undeserving of His grace.
Faith and Trust:
- Believe that God can and will answer your prayers according to His will.
A Forgiving Spirit:
- Let go of grudges and offense, just as God forgave you.
Sincerity and Honesty:
- Be genuine in your communication with God.
Practical Steps to Transform Your Prayer Life
Start With Gratitude
- Thank God for what He has already done in your life.
Confess Your Sins
- Admit your wrongdoings and ask for forgiveness.
Submit to God’s Will
- Pray like Jesus in Matthew 26:39: “Not my will, but Yours be done.”
Intercede for Others
- Pray for the needs of others, not just your own.
Close With Faith
- End your prayer with confidence, believing God has heard you.
A Prayer for Humility and Effective Prayer
“Lord Jesus, I come before You with a humble heart, acknowledging that I am a sinner undeserving of Your mercy. Forgive me for the times I have approached You with pride, doubt, or unforgiveness. Teach me to pray with faith, sincerity, and humility. I surrender my desires to Your perfect will, trusting that Your timing and plans are best for me. Help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me. Thank You for always hearing my prayers and for Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Final Encouragement
Approach God as a child approaches a loving parent—with humility, trust, and sincerity.
Stop instructing God and start surrendering to His will.
Let go of pride, grudges, and impatience, and allow your prayers to reflect a heart transformed by His Spirit.
Declaration
“I will pray with humility and sincerity. I will trust God’s mercy and timing, and I will approach Him with faith, not pride or doubt. My prayers will be guided by His Word and motivated by a heart surrendered to His will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Good Morning 🌄 and PROSPER! ✨today
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