How does Psalm 86:6 connect with 1 John 5:14 on prayer confidence? The Shared Theme: God Listens “Hear, O LORD, my prayer; give heed to the voice of my plea for mercy.” “And this is the confidence that we have before Him: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” Together these verses weave one clear thread: the Lord not only permits His people to pray—He actively listens. Old and New Testament Harmony • Psalm 86:6 is David’s earnest plea. He does not wonder whether God can hear; he assumes it and begs for attentive mercy. • 1 John 5:14 moves from plea to settled assurance. The apostle states as fact what David implied by faith: God absolutely hears, and we can therefore pray with “confidence.” • The same divine attribute—God’s attentive ear—stands firm in both covenants, confirming Scripture’s unity (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). What “He Hears Us” Means • Not mere acoustic awareness; He hears with intent to respond (Jeremiah 33:3). • Hearing is tied to covenant relationship—He is “our Father” (Matthew 6:9) who welcomes His children (Romans 8:15). • It assures us of His personal involvement, countering any notion that prayer is wishful thinking. Conditions for Confidence Psalm 86 highlights humility: “plea for mercy.” 1 John 5:14 highlights submission: “according to His will.” • Humility—acknowledging our need (Psalm 51:17). • Submission—aligning desires with His revealed purposes (James 4:3). Confidence grows where humility and submission meet. Supporting Passages • Psalm 34:15 —“The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and His ears are inclined to their cry.” • Proverbs 15:29 —“He hears the prayer of the righteous.” • Hebrews 4:16 —“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” • Matthew 7:7-11 —Jesus affirms the Father’s readiness to give good gifts. Practical Takeaways • Pray boldly, knowing the King bends His ear. • Let Scripture shape requests so they align with His will. • When answers delay, rest in the certainty that He has already heard (Psalm 40:1). • Thank Him in advance; confidence produces gratitude (Philippians 4:6-7). |
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