Have you ever wondered if God is listening to your prayers? My guess is we have all felt that way. When it seems that God is not listening, doubt seeps into our minds concerning all that we have been praying about. And doubt is destructive…it will kill faith quicker than anything.
Recently, while reading in Daniel, two particular phrases encouraged me greatly. In chapter 9, verse 23, the angel of the Lord speaks to Daniel and says, “The moment you began praying, a command was given.” Notice, not only did God hear the prayer, but at the moment he began praying, a command was given concerning the situation. But also notice the follow-up statement to Daniel. The angel said, “I am here to tell you what it was, for you are very precious to God.”
2 years later, (One chapter later–Daniel 10:10-12) Daniel is again mourning the current state of affairs. He is interceding on behalf of the nation when he receives a troubling vision from the Lord. While waiting on the Lord to reveal the meaning of the vision, the angel of the Lord once again appears with these words, “Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven.” But notice the angels words of greeting. He said, “Daniel, you are very precious to God, so listen carefully to what I have to say to you. Stand up, for I have been sent to you.”
The purpose of Daniel’s encounter with the angel was twofold. First, to unfold truth to Daniel. And second, to encourage Daniel and let him know that he is precious in the sight of the Lord.
So, when it seems that God is not listening, just remember that He has heard the very first words that you uttered in prayer, and that He will answer appropriately in due time…because He loves you and wants you to be encouraged!
Thinking Out Loud 