What Kind of Prayers Does God Really Answer?

There’s a certain kind of prayer that gets heard and acted upon. Think of Moses, Elijah, Daniel, Peter, Paul. They prayed prayers that shut the mouths of lions, opened prison doors and brought down the fire of God. How did they pray?

Elijah prayed earnestly, effectively, intently from the heart. Most of us did not grow up with “intense religion.” We’re used to the “bow your heads and close your eyes” kind of prayers.

But Elijah’s prayers came from a heart that was burning with a zeal for the Lord. When he faced off the false prophets on Mt. Carmel, his prayer reflected this passion.

“‘The Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and that I have done all these things at Your word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, so that this people may know that You are the Lord God and that You have turned their hearts back again.’ Then the fire of the Lord fell” (1 Kin. 16:36-38).

The Bible says that God looks on the heart. He’s not necessarily looking for a loud prayer or a perfect prayer, but rather for one that’s birthed from an intense desire to see His purposes fulfilled on earth.

What is in your heart? What is the force behind your prayers? If it doesn’t come from the heart, it doesn’t get to God.

Would you pray more if you felt like your prayers were making a difference? Start by checking your heart and your passions. Make God’s priorities your priorities and you’ll notice an increasing intensity in your prayers as your heart begins to speak.

Elijah was a man just like us and yet his prayers were mighty. You and I can see more results from our prayers if we’ll learn to pray from the heart.

Steve Gray is the founder and president of Steve Gray Ministries, a ministry focused on restoring the glory of God to Israel and Jewish people everywhere. Known worldwide as the leader of the Smithton Outpouring, Gray is also known globally through the live revival broadcasts of World Revival Church services on Daystar Television Network. Pastor, author and songwriter, Steve is a screenwriter and producer utilizing the power of film and television to share the gospel. His current feature film project is focused on Israel.