God has not promised to hear prayers that
- Are offered in unbelief
James 1:6-7: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.
- Are selfish and contrary to God’s will
James 4:3: Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
Assignment: Read Matt. 20:20-23: The selfish prayer of the mother of the sons of Zebedee. - Wish evil for our neighbor
Rom. 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
- Prescribe to God the time and manner, when and how He should help us. Note: In God-pleasing prayer we do not give commands to God. A God-pleasing prayer is the humble and thankful plea of a forgiven and obedient child.