Hindered Prayers

Why Prayers Are Hindered

Text: Matt 7:7-11

Introduction

How would you like to have a rich uncle? One that every time you needed something, there he was, ready and willing to provide.

Even Rich uncles would have a problem with some of our prayer request. For one there are greater request than money can buy, and two because even a kind good uncle would have a problem granting some of our silly request.

God knows how to give good gifts. That the only kind he will grant. He does not grant gifts that are not good for us.

A rich uncle would also have some problems with the way some of us might ask.

Everyone wants a good prayer life.

Our Prayers are Hindered because

I. We Don't Ask -- James 4:1-3

Someone has said the three most common reasons for prayers not being heard are found here.

1. We pray for the Wrong Things
2. We Pray for the Wrong Reasons
3. We Don't Ask

II. Our Home Life isn't Right - 1 Peter 3:7

This is directly addressing the relationship between the husband and wife. Although I believe the roles can be reversed, the Bible address this relationship concerning the husband to their wife.

Three elements that are named are:

1. Consideration
2. Respect
3. As Equal Heirs

III. Our Relationships Aren't Right With Others Matt 5:23-24

Since prayer is probably one of the highest forms of worship, it would make sense that we should be right with others before we approach the God of Grace.

There are three little things about this matter that needs to be pointed out.

1. The Timing - When should this matter be handled?
2. Who initiates Recompense
3. Why? Because we are hypocrites if we don't.

1 John 4:20
20 If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?

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