Whose Prayers Does God Answer?

“We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will; God listens to him.” (John 9:31)

“God hears not sinners.” This statement explains what the OT plainly teaches about certain types of sinners; it addresses the ‘willful’ and ‘not sorry’ sinners as the ones who do not have God’s ear. It does not imply that godly men who commit occasional transgressions do not have their prayers heard.

Take note that God is far from the wicked; but does hear the prayer of the righteous. “The LORD is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.” (Prov. 15:29) The prayer of a wicked person is an outrage to God.

“If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.” (Prov. 28:9) “… The prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.” (Prov. 15:8)  David sums it up by saying, “I cried to him with my mouth, and high praise was on my tongue. If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer.” (Ps 66:17-19)

All spiritual blessings are in Christ. (Eph 1:3) Prayer is a spiritual blessing; for those in Christ; those who now have set their minds on things above where Christ is. (Col 3:2) Remember; the sinner is not in Christ; not a worshipper of God; nor a doer of his will. He has not accepted the free gift of God; what can a sinner pray for? (Titus 2:11-12) He can pray for nothing which faith and obedience to God’s word does not supply.

Dear sinner friend, “Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; or his ear dull; that it cannot hear; but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.” (Isa 59:1-2)

God loves you; he sent his only begotten son so that you may have a way to him; (John 3:16) believe in him or die in your sins; repent of your sins or perish. (Luke 13:3)  “Confess me before men; I will confess you before my Father which is in heaven.” (Mat 10:32) “Why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16) Get up; put some ‘walk’ in your ‘talk’! Walk in the steps of our Savior and guide; then God will hear!