Confidence in Prayer

Confidence in Prayer
(1 John 5:14–15)
“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.”

Where Is Your Confidence as a Believer?

As Christians, where do we place our confidence? John wrote these words to believers who, much like us, were struggling to remain grounded. They compared themselves to others, questioned their identity in Christ, and lacked confidence in their faith. He reminded them of the privilege of being called children of God and of having access to Him through Jesus Christ.

To illustrate this, the minister used a powerful analogy with four examples:

1. A Cat – Its purpose in the home is to catch rats. If the cat becomes playful with the rats instead, it is no longer fulfilling its purpose—it’s useless.

2. A Dog – Fed and cared for to guard the home. But if it wags its tail at a thief and becomes friendly, it is of no use.

3. A Police Officer – Entrusted with a weapon to protect and enforce justice. But if he misuses it or becomes passive, he fails in his role.

4. A Man – Called to protect and provide for his family. But if he becomes a drunkard and neglects his responsibilities, he becomes ineffective.

Similarly, a Christian who has been entrusted with the Word of God, washed in the blood of Jesus, and filled with the Holy Spirit, but does not live according to God’s Word, loses their effectiveness. A believer who ignores God’s commands is like a cat playing with a rat—no longer fulfilling their purpose.

The Responsibility of a Believer

A man who knows the Word of God yet neglects it in his household is no different. A woman who encourages ungodly behavior in her children, rather than raising them in the ways of the Lord, fails in her role as a godly parent.

We must ask ourselves: Where is our confidence?

It is a high calling to be entrusted with God’s Word. Jesus opened the way for us to approach the Father, and yet many refuse to walk in that privilege. If we don’t use what’s been given to us, how can our lives reflect God’s will?

Understanding Confidence in Prayer

Confidence in prayer is not about feelings—it’s about trust in the nature of God. John emphasized:

1. God Hears Us –
   He doesn’t need a long introduction or our history. God is not interested in stories about why things haven’t worked out—He is looking for faith. When Jesus asked the man at the well if he wanted to be healed, the man began to explain his circumstances instead of simply saying yes. We often do the same.

We must pray with expectation, believing that God can do exceedingly, abundantly more than we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

2. God Answers Prayers –
   He does not need a performance or a song to move. If we ask according to His will, He answers. But our prayers are often hindered by:

   • Fear – We focus on our past, our flaws, and what we can’t do. The enemy accuses us and tries to keep us from approaching God boldly.

   • Doubt – We start strong but begin to question. Many give up on their faith, their marriages, or even life goals because of doubt.

   • Disbelief – We say, “It’s not possible.” We believe doctors more than the Word of God. But God still heals, restores, and transforms.

3. Pray With Discernment –
   Prayer is not just closing our eyes or repeating words. John didn’t urge the believers to fill the church with noise but to approach God with understanding.

   • Know the Word – Discernment comes from Scripture. Without it, we’re like the cat playing with the mouse—living without purpose.

   • Live in Obedience – Faith isn’t just talk. Are you obeying God like you obey trusted voices in your life?

   • Be Rooted in Faith – Believe in what you can’t see. Trust that God will fulfill His promises, and hold on to His Word.

   • Claim God’s Promises – Over your life, your family, your children. Do you even know what those promises are?

Walk in Confidence

You were created for a purpose. God has entrusted you with His Word, His Spirit, and His promises. You are part of His army—called to fight for your family, your community, and your faith.

Just like a soldier prepares for battle, prepare in prayer. Pray with confidence. Walk with boldness. Trust in the One who hears and answers. Let your life reflect the purpose God has placed within you.

You are not useless—you are chosen. Be confident in Him who has called you.