It’s not uncommon for people to wonder if God is hearing their prayers. But we should not let feelings have the final say. God’s Word paints a much different picture.

The Word says, “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers” (1 Peter 3:12). Let’s make sure we understand who “the righteous” are. Righteousness is not only right-doing, it is right-standing with God.

You come into this right-standing through faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). Because of your God-given righteousness, you have as much right to receive your prayers answered as Jesus does. Your prayers are as valid as Jesus’ prayers!

Because Jesus made you righteous by shedding His blood on your behalf, Hebrews 4:16 now tells you that you can come boldly to the throne of grace, so that you may obtain mercy and find grace to help in your time of need. Notice the word boldly. That means without intimidation, or a sense of inferiority or unworthiness.

Picture Jesus approaching the throne with you when you pray to the Father. He is your mediator. First Timothy 2:5 says He mediates, or intercedes for you, with the Father. He is also your High Priest (Hebrews 4:14) and your Advocate (1 John 2:1). You approach God with boldness because of what Jesus has done and is doing for you, not on your own merits. This is why God hears and answers your prayers.

Also, you must remember there is a right and wrong way to pray. If you pray accurately according to the Word, you can always be assured that you receive what you ask of God. Read John 14:13-14, 16:23-24 and 1 John 5:14-15. From these verses, you will find that it is important to pray to the Father in Jesus’ Name, to pray according to the Word of God, and to pray based on your relationship with Jesus, not on your own merits.

God does hear your prayers!