This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
1 John 5:14
In the context of this epistle, John emphasizes the importance of love, obedience, and faith in God’s Son, Jesus Christ. He assures believers of the eternal life they have in Jesus and the certainty of God’s love for those who follow His commandments.
In this verse, John invites believers to approach God with confidence in their prayers. It highlights the privilege and assurance we have as children of God to communicate directly with Him. This confidence does not arise from our own merit or righteousness, but from the grace and love extended to us through Jesus Christ.
John emphasizes the importance of aligning our requests with God’s will. Prayer is not a tool to manipulate God or fulfill our selfish desires but a means to seek His purposes and submit to His wisdom. When our hearts are in harmony with God’s will, our prayers become a powerful channel through which His plans are accomplished in our lives and in the world around us.
Furthermore, John assures us that when we pray according to God’s will, He hears us. This reaffirms God’s attentive and loving nature, assuring us that no prayer offered in faith and sincerity goes unnoticed or unheard. Though the answer may not always be immediate or as we expect, we can trust that God’s response is always aligned with His perfect wisdom and love.
1 John 5:14 challenges us to examine our approach to prayer. It encourages us to deepen our relationship with God, seeking to understand His will through studying His Word and walking in obedience. Our prayers are not limited to the grand and extraordinary; they can be as simple as daily petitions for guidance, thanksgiving, and intercession for others.
1 John 5:14 beautifully portrays the privilege and power of prayer in the life of a believer. It is an invitation to approach God with confidence, knowing that our prayers, when aligned with His will, are heard and answered. As we grow in understanding God’s heart and desires, our prayers become a conduit of His love and purpose in the world. Let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, trusting in God’s perfect will and opening our hearts to His transformative work through prayer.
