Answered Prayer

Answered prayer shows how Nehemiah’s passionate faith moved mountains. Humbly seek God with persistence, and trust Him to respond.

“When I heard these words … I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.”—Nehemiah 1:4 KJV

Nehemiah’s heart was broken. He heard that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down, “and its gates have been burned with fire” (v. 3). For Nehemiah, this was not acceptable. He turned to God, humbling himself, fasting, and praying. He spent days weeping and seeking God’s face.

He knew the exile to Babylon and the horrible conditions in Jerusalem were a direct result of the sins of God’s people. He confessed their sins before the Lord, even though he wasn’t personally guilty.

As he sought God, Nehemiah knew the Lord’s mercy was their only hope. He prayed constantly, and then the impossible happened: He was called to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls and restore what had been lost.

Nehemiah’s prayers were the kind that move mountains and change the world. His prayers were humble, yet resolved and enthusiastic, filled with sincerity and commitment, born of a heart that longed desperately for God to move.

In contrast, many people approach God with superficial concerns and shallow prayers. Although their prayers may be sincere, they don’t demonstrate determination or genuine faith. When they don’t receive an immediate answer, they give up. It shouldn’t be surprising if God doesn’t answer their prayers.

Do you want answers to your prayers? Consider the example of Nehemiah. Humble yourself before God and ask Him to forgive your sins and give you a clean heart. Persistently seek His face, with sincerity and conviction.

Reflection Question: How can you deepen your prayer life with sincerity and faith?