Keys to Answered Prayer

“Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” Jn 16:24 NKJV

If your prayers are not being answered, ask yourself: (1) How is my relationship with the Lord? “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me” (Ps 66:18). Anything that adversely affects your relationship with God also affects your prayers. Friendship gives you favor; intimacy gives you access. Jesus said, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you” (Jn 15:7 NKJV). (2) How strong is my faith? “Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is…a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Heb 11:6 NKJV). Notice three words: (a) “Believe.” God’s deepest longing is to be believed, regardless of emotion or circumstance. (b) “Diligently.” When you pray, put your heart and soul into it. Paul speaks of “labouring in prayer” (See Col 4:12). (c) “Him.” God is not some “force out there,” He’s your heavenly Father Who “knows that you need all these things” (Mt 6:32 NKJV). Your highest priority should not be getting your needs met, but building your relationship with God. (3) Am I showing patience? “Until God’s time finally came—how God tested his patience!” (Ps 105:19 TLB). Joseph was tested by the very promise God gave him. Can’t you hear Satan whisper, “I thought the dream said you were supposed to be prime minister; what are you doing in prison?” But it only looks like a prison; in reality, it’s the birthplace of destiny. Joseph saw God’s promise fulfilled—in God’s time. And you will too!

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