Disappointed in Prayer - Is It Me?

Summary

The video script explores the concept of unanswered prayers, often referred to as the 'Dark Side of Prayer.' It delves into the reasons why prayers might not be answered, suggesting that it could be due to the individual's lack of righteousness, the nature of their prayers, or God's will. The speaker encourages viewers to reflect on their faith, righteousness, and self-righteousness, emphasizing the importance of living a life aligned with God's teachings to experience the power of prayer and receive what is asked for.

Takeaways

• 🙏 Jesus emphasized the importance of prayer by repeating the promises of receiving, finding, and having doors opened when we ask, seek, and knock.
• 🕊️ Despite the promises, there are times when prayer seems unanswered, leading to feelings of emptiness and questioning the efficacy of prayer.
• 🤔 The 'Dark Side of Prayer' refers to the struggle with unanswered prayers, which can hurt and even damage our faith.
• 📖 Proverbs warns that God may not hear the prayers of those who do not follow His counsel or despise His reproof.
• 💔 Unanswered prayer can lead to questioning God's integrity, the power of prayer, and even one's own salvation.
• 🙅‍♂️ The lack of righteousness in our lives might be a reason why our prayers are not answered; we must examine our relationship with God.
• 🩸 The concept of righteousness is tied to blood (forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice), belief, baptism, and living by the Bible.
• 🌱 Faith, as illustrated by Abraham's example, is crucial for righteousness and thus effective prayer.
• 🔍 We must consider whether we are self-righteous, which can hinder our prayers, as Jesus taught in the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican.
• 🔄 The process of examining our faith involves looking at our actions, beliefs, and how we live our lives in accordance with God's word.
• 📚 The Bible teaches that faith comes by hearing God's word, which is essential for a righteous life and effective prayer.

Q & A

What is the key message behind Matthew 7:7?

The key message of Matthew 7:7 is that those who ask, seek, and knock will receive, find, and have doors opened to them. Jesus emphasizes that persistent prayer and faith will be rewarded.

What is the ASK acronym mentioned in the script?

The ASK acronym stands for Ask, Seek, and Knock, representing the three actions Jesus mentions in Matthew 7:7. It serves as an easy way to remember the verse.

Why does the speaker refer to a 'Dark Side of Prayer'?

The speaker refers to the 'Dark Side of Prayer' when discussing times when prayers seem unanswered, which can lead to doubt in God's integrity, the effectiveness of prayer, and even personal faith.

What reasons does the speaker suggest for unanswered prayers?

The speaker suggests three reasons for unanswered prayers: it could be due to the person praying, the nature of their prayers, or God's will.

How does Proverbs 1:28-30 relate to unanswered prayers?

Proverbs 1:28-30 suggests that God may not answer prayers because people have rejected His counsel and guidance, meaning their hearts may not be aligned with His will.

What role does righteousness play in prayer according to the script?

According to the script, righteousness is crucial in prayer. The prayers of a righteous person are powerful, as seen in James 5:16. If someone is not living righteously, their prayers may not be heard.

What does Psalm 66:18 say about the condition of the heart in prayer?

Psalm 66:18 states that if a person cherishes sin in their heart, the Lord will not listen to their prayers, emphasizing the importance of inner purity when approaching God.

How does self-righteousness impact prayer according to the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican?

In the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican (Luke 18), self-righteousness prevents effective prayer. The Pharisee prayed to himself and not to God, while the humble Publican was justified because he recognized his need for God's mercy.

What does the speaker suggest we do when prayers seem unanswered?

The speaker suggests examining our lives and relationship with God, as stated in 2 Corinthians 13:5, to ensure we are living in faith and righteousness before questioning God's response to our prayers.

What four words from Romans are highlighted to describe the path to righteousness?

The four words highlighted from Romans are Blood, Belief, Baptism, and Bible. These represent the key elements in attaining and maintaining righteousness through Christ's sacrifice, faith, baptism, and continued study of the Scriptures.