In what ways can we seek the LORD's attentive "ears" in prayer? Setting the Scene Psalm 130:2 cries, “Lord, hear my voice; let Your ears be attentive to my plea for mercy.” Scripture reveals that God’s ears are not automatically attentive to every request; He listens closely when we approach Him in certain ways. Heart Attitudes God Hears • Humility: “This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit” (Isaiah 66:2). • Repentance: “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened” (Psalm 66:18). • Sincerity: “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). • Faith: “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). Obedience That Draws His Ear • Walking in righteousness: “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer” (1 Peter 3:12). • Loving others: “Whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight” (1 John 3:22). • Forgiving quickly: “Whenever you stand praying, forgive… so that your Father in heaven will also forgive you” (Mark 11:25). Practical Steps for Daily Prayer • Begin with praise (Psalm 100:4). • Confess known sin immediately (1 John 1:9). • Submit every request to His will (1 John 5:14). • Anchor petitions in Scripture (John 15:7). • Thank Him in advance (Philippians 4:6). • Persist; don’t quit (Luke 18:1). Key Reminders from Scripture • God delights to listen: “Call to Me and I will answer you” (Jeremiah 33:3). • He is near to the broken-hearted (Psalm 34:18). • The “effective prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16). Approach Him with a humble, obedient, faith-filled heart, and His attentive ears are assured. |
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