Being Confident That God Hears Our Prayers

In 1 John chapter 5 verses 14 to 15, the beloved apostle gives us a real gem when it comes to how we think about prayer. Here’s what John wrote: “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” One of the common barriers to a consistent, joyful prayer life is the nagging thought that God isn’t really listening. To overcome this, pray God’s will, which practically means praying the Scriptures. Praying God’s Word, you will experience God’s answers, and the joy that comes knowing He hears and answers when you talk to Him. Now that’s something to pray about!

Prayer And Martyrdom

You may have heard of a young missionary couple from the U.S. that was recently martyred for their Christian faith and service in Haiti. Heartbreaking news like this can produce heavy, mixed emotions. Here are at least four ways we can respond in prayer. First, for the family, friends and community grieving the death of this faithful couple. Second, for supernatural protection for all Christians, especially in highly persecuted and dangerous areas of the world. Third, that we would all have the courage to lay our life down if the Lord would have us do so for His glory and higher purposes. Fourth, in the wake of this sadness, for a great move of God to come to the very place in Haiti where this young couple gave their lives. Now that’s something to pray about!

Father’s Day 2024

My dad, Dennis Kistner, has been instrumental in my walk with Christ. As I was growing up, he would frequently direct me to Scripture, and programming on local Christian radio. As we celebrated fathers this past week, I thought it would be best if you heard from him. Now, back by popular demand, here’s dad: in our rapidly changing world, let’s remember that God is unchanging, reliable, rock solid. To my fellow fathers and grandfathers listening today, our kids and grandkids are growing up in a world much different than we did. Yet, nothing shakes our mighty God. Let’s remember to pray for our children and grandchildren. Christ is their rock—their sure foundation—and will give them the strength and reliability to live for Him during uncertain times. Now that’s something to pray about!

How God Feels When We Pray

A few weeks ago, my four-year-old was looking for a toy guitar that he had misplaced. As he was looking around the house for it, I heard him whisper a short prayer of “help me find my guitar.” Blessed by what I thought I just heard, I asked him if he prayed or if he was talking to me. Sure enough, he said it was a prayer. I was filled with joy and suddenly motivated to help him. This sweet moment reminded me of how God feels when we pray. It fills His holy heart with delight when we turn to Him, and He’s eager to help meet our need. In Christ, we are beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven. He loves when we pray, and nothing is too small to bring to His attention. Now that’s something to pray about!

Our Eyes Are On You

2 Chronicles chapter 20 features a moving prayer by King Jehoshaphat, who was suddenly facing a vast army. The king called the people of Judah to fast, and he prayed to the Lord. Toward the end of his prayer, Jehoshaphat said, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12). There are times in our life when obstacles seem to mount. Satan and his demonic hosts unleash assaults on our faith and family. The battle is real, but so is our God. It’s okay to not have all the answers. Do everything you know to do. Then put King Jehoshaphat’s prayer into your own words as you talk to King Jesus: “I’m not sure what to do, but I’m going to keep looking to You.” Now that’s something to pray about!