How does 1 John 5:14 encourage confidence in our prayer life? The Assurance Stated “And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” (1 John 5:14) • “Confidence” (Greek parrēsia) means boldness, freedom of speech, an unhesitating approach. • The promise is two-fold: we may ask, and God hears. Why the Word “Confidence” Matters • Prayer is not a tentative wish but a child’s right to speak openly to the Father (Hebrews 4:16). • Boldness springs from the merits of Christ, not personal worthiness (Ephesians 3:12). According to His Will—The Key to Bold Asking • Alignment with God’s revealed purposes unlocks assurance. – John 14:13-14: asking “in My name” equals asking in harmony with the Son’s mission. – 1 John 3:22: obedience and pleasing God tune the heart to His will. • Scripture, illuminated by the Spirit, defines that will (Psalm 119:105; Romans 12:2). He Hears Us—God’s Attentive Ear • Hearing implies favorable attention, not mere awareness (Psalm 34:15; Jeremiah 33:3). • Verse 15 adds the outcome: “we know that we have what we asked of Him.” Confidence stretches from petition to possession. Connecting Confidence with Obedience • 1 John 3:22 links answered prayer to keeping His commandments. • A surrendered life keeps the channel clear, guarding against requests that clash with holiness (James 4:3). Practical Ways to Pray with Confidence • Soak in Scripture daily to discern God’s desires. • Pray in Jesus’ name—seeking what honors Him and advances His kingdom. • Thank God in advance (Philippians 4:6-7), expressing trust before results appear. • Persist; delays refine faith, not deny hearing (Luke 18:1-8). • Listen; leave space for the Spirit’s promptings and corrections (Romans 8:26-27). When Answers Seem Delayed • God may be shaping us for the very answer we seek (James 1:2-4). • He sometimes grants better than requested (Ephesians 3:20). • Confidence rests not in visible results but in the unchanging character of the One who promises, “He hears us.” |
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