A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 51

Text: Psalm 17

PRAYERS THAT GOD WOULD HEAR

ASSURANCE OF ANSWERED PRAYER

If we were not sure that God would hear and answer prayers, then our prayer efforts would be that much weaker. When we pray, we must begin on a very strong and powerful note of confidence! God will hear and answer the prayers of the righteous!

LEARNING FROM THE PSALMIST DAVID

Let us learn valuable lessons about how to plead before the Lord from the psalmist David. The first lesson must be well and thoroughly learned before other steps can be taken!

"Concerning the works of men,
By the word of Your lips,
I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer."
Psalm 17:4

David knew that God wanted all righteous people not to keep company with the wicked. He felt that he had done just that, when he kept himself away "from the paths of the destroyer."

We are surely reminded of the words found in Psalm 1.

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel
Of the ungodly, nor stands in the paths of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful…"
Psalm 1:1

If this first step is not undertaken, then we may indeed have doubts as to whether God would here and answer prayers!

PLEADING TRUST IN THE LORD

What other things must be done to ensure God's answer to prayers. Let us look at the following text!

"Uphold my steps in Your paths,
That my footsteps may not slip.
I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God;
Incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech.
Show me Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand,
O You who save those who trust You."
Psalm 17:5-7

1. Plead for grace to always walk in God's ways

2. Plead to God that He might show great lovingkindness

3. Plead faith and trust in the Lord!

God is indeed close to those who are righteous. He will indeed come to the rescue of His beloved children! Let us take heart at this thought!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~