“For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9a
When we’re in the trenches fighting FOR our marriage it is important not only to put on the armor of God each day, but to keep communication channels open with God.
When going into battle, military must be in communication with their command. Situations change. Command has access to satellite to be able to know what is going on ahead of the troops going into an area. If the troops need backup, the channels better be open to tell command what is going on.
Prayer is our “channel” to talk to God, our command central. He has information to give us in order to fight an effective spiritual battle. And He wants to hear from us when we are in need so He can meet that need. Granted, He doesn’t always answer the way we envision, but it’s always for His glory and our good.
Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore, he will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Isaiah 30:18
Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. 1 John 21- 3:22
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14
However, the word of God tells us that there are things which will hinder our prayers. Here are 3 areas to keep clear to prevent hindered prayers.
Disobedience/sin:
If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, even their prayers are detestable. Proverbs 28:9
If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened… Psalm 66:18
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25
Wrong motives/selfishness:
When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. James 4:3
When we keep our hearts clear before God, we can be assured our prayers will be answered.
Have you ever experienced clearing up one of these areas in your life then hearing God more clearly?
Verse: Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:6-9
Personalize for prayer:
Lord, I will rejoice in you always, no matter what. Be near to me, Lord. I choose to not be anxious about anything, but to trust You. In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, I will present my requests to you, God. And your peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Help me to think only on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—anything excellent or praiseworthy. Fill me with Your peace!
Challenges:
1- Memorize verse, pray verse daily.
2- Ask God if anything is hindering your prayers…repent if there is.
3- Journal about your journey. Record how God has answered your prayers or voice your longing for answers you are still waiting on.
Please let me know how I can pray for you and your marriage this week. Simply comment “pray” and I will lift you up knowing the Lord knows what you need. If you would like specific prayer use the comment form on the contact page listed in the menu bar above.
