What practical steps ensure our cries align with God's will, per Job 35:12? Job 35:12 in Focus “They cry out, but He does not answer, because of the pride of evil men.” Why Some Cries Go Unanswered • Pride shuts God’s ears (Job 35:12) • Hidden sin blocks fellowship (Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1-2) • Self-centered motives derail requests (James 4:3) • Disregard for God’s Word severs communion (Proverbs 28:9; Zechariah 7:11-13) Practical Steps to Align Our Cries with God’s Will • Humble Yourself First – “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) – Lay down self-reliance; confess need before asking. • Examine and Repent of Sin – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive.” (1 John 1:9) – Let the Spirit spotlight any attitude or action displeasing to the Lord. • Seek God’s Face before His Hand – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33) – Pursue relationship, not merely relief. • Align Requests with Scripture – Saturate your mind with God’s revealed will (Joshua 1:8; John 15:7). – Phrase petitions in language Scripture already approves. • Submit to Christ’s Lordship – Pray as Jesus did: “Yet not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42). – Surrender desired outcomes to His sovereign wisdom. • Believe and Expect God’s Answer in His Timing – “Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it.” (Mark 11:24). – Trust Him even when the answer is “wait” or “no.” • Walk in Practical Obedience – “Whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments.” (1 John 3:22). – Let daily actions echo the faith you voice in prayer. Scripture Snapshots that Reinforce These Steps • 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humility, repentance, seeking, turning. • Psalm 34:15 – God’s ears open to the righteous. • Proverbs 15:29 – The LORD hears the prayer of the upright. • 1 Peter 3:12 – Eyes of the Lord on the righteous; face against evil. The Fruit of Aligned Cries • Clear conscience and renewed intimacy with God (Hebrews 10:22). • Confident requests that match His heart (1 John 5:14-15). • Peace while waiting, knowing He hears and acts for our good (Philippians 4:6-7). |
    |