First Baptist Church on the Square

The Way Prayer Works

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God—let us hold fast to our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16

Hindrances to Prayer

Hindrances to Prayer:
- Unconfessed Sin

If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened. But truly God has listened; He has attended to the voice of my prayer.
Psalm 66:18-20

My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ the righteous one. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for those of the whole world.
1 John 2:1-2

Hindrances to Prayer:
- Unconfessed Sin
- Relational Conflict

So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother or sister has something against you leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.
Matthew 5:23-24

Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with a weaker partner, showing them honor as coheirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered. 1 Peter 3:7

Hindrances to Prayer:
- Unconfessed Sin
- Relational Conflict
- Wrong Motives

You ask and don’t receive because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. James 4:3

God-centered Prayer

This is the confidence we have before him: If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
1 John 5:14