What does Psalm 66:20 teach about God's response to our prayers? “Blessed be God, who has not rejected my prayer nor withheld from me His loving devotion.” What This Verse Reveals About God’s Response to Prayer • God does not ignore sincere prayer; He actively listens. • His loving devotion (ḥesed) remains steady—He neither withdraws it nor rations it. • Answered prayer springs from His character, not our merit. Implications for Everyday Prayer • Confidence: We approach God expecting a hearing, not a cold shoulder. (cf. 1 John 5:14–15) • Assurance: Even when the answer delays, His steadfast love is intact. (cf. Psalm 136:1) • Praise: Recognition of answered prayer should overflow in worship, just as the psalmist blesses God. (cf. Psalm 34:1) How God’s Listening Love Shapes Us 1. Encourages continual prayer—He’s always receptive. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) 2. Deepens trust—His unwavering love anchors our requests. (Jeremiah 31:3) 3. Fuels gratitude—reviewing answered prayers builds a habit of thankfulness. (Psalm 107:1) Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 34:15 – “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry.” • Psalm 116:1–2 – “I love the LORD, for He has heard my voice… Because He has inclined His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live.” • Proverbs 15:8 – “The prayer of the upright is His delight.” Takeaway Psalm 66:20 assures us that God hears and loves us without interruption; our prayers find a welcome reception, and His covenant love remains the backdrop to every answer. |