How can we apply the Israelites' request in Deuteronomy 5:27 to our prayers? The Heart of the Request “Go near and listen to all that the LORD our God says. Then tell us whatever the LORD our God tells you; we will listen and obey.” (Deuteronomy 5:27) The people wanted two things: • Someone to draw near to the LORD on their behalf. • A clear word from God they were determined to obey. Recognize God’s Holiness • Their fear at Sinai was not irrational; it was reverence (Hebrews 12:18-21). • Healthy awe keeps prayer from sliding into casual talk. • Begin prayer by remembering who God is—“Holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:3). Rely on the True Mediator • Israel leaned on Moses; we come through Jesus. – “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5) – “Therefore, since we have a great High Priest … let us approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:14-16) • Pray in His name, trusting His completed work to grant access (John 14:6; Hebrews 10:19-22). Listen Before Speaking • “Go near and listen” precedes “tell us.” • Practical steps: – Open Scripture first; ask, “What are You saying, Lord?” – Sit in silence, inviting the Spirit to press the Word into the heart (John 16:13). – Note impressions that align with Scripture; dismiss what does not. Pray With an Obedient Posture • “We will listen and obey” shifts prayer from information-gathering to life-shaping. • Make obedience explicit: – “Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:9) – “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) • Expect God to address attitudes, relationships, schedules, giving, witnessing. Intercede for Others • Moses carried God’s message back to the camp; our prayers can do the same. – Stand in the gap for family, church, and nation (Ezekiel 22:30). – Share truth you receive, “imploring on behalf of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). Living It Out Today 1. Begin each prayer time acknowledging God’s holiness. 2. Consciously approach through Christ, thanking Him for access. 3. Read a passage; pause to listen. 4. Write one specific act of obedience the Spirit highlights. 5. Pray those insights over someone who needs them. 6. Close by affirming, “I will listen and obey,” then follow through during the day. By shaping prayer around these elements—reverence, mediation, listening, obedience, and intercession—we echo Israel’s request in Deuteronomy 5:27 and experience the same life-giving voice of the LORD. |
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