how to get your prayers answered

 Today we read from the One Year Bible in these verses:

Leviticus 27:14-Numbers 1:54
Mark 11:1-26
Psalm 46:1-11

Proverbs 10:23  

Let's look at Mark. Jesus tells His disciples (and us) very clearly how to get their prayers answered. First, you have to have faith in God and trust Him to hear you. And then VERY importantly, you have to forgive anyone that you're "holding anything against." I don't think I have to explain that, right? Is there something someone has done that you're holding a grudge about? Forgive them. Then God will forgive you YOUR sins and will answer your prayers.

Does that mean God will refuse to answer your prayers if you don't? No. God hears you, even in the middle of your sin. And He loves you and will often answer your prayers. But if you really want Him to pay attention, forgive those who you need to forgive, and not only will He answer your prayers more readily, but it will soften your heart and you'll be able to hear what He's telling you, which is at LEAST as important as Him hearing you and your prayers.

God, thanks for teaching us how to reopen our lines of communication with You.