Isaiah 59:2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.

Our God is a holy God, and prayer is the vehicle that God has given us to approach Him. Indeed, prayer offered by a Christian harbouring sin is akin to a plane without wings, a car without wheels or a boat without a rudder. It is vain. Make no mistake about it—God wants to hear our prayer, but flagrant disregard for the commandments of God will quickly stop His ear.

Moreover, in a way, all prayer is actually answered. God answers prayer in three ways: yes, no, and wait. When God says no to our prayers, we think He didn’t answer them. But actually He did. He said no. But a few times our actions stop God’s ear.

Here are 3 things that hinder our prayers :

#1. Sin. Most often than not, our prayers are not answered because of unconfessed sin in our lives. The Bible says,

“But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2 NKJV).

The Psalmist wrote,

“If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear” (Psalm 55:18 NKJV).

#2. Unforgiveness. Also, unforgiveness can hinder our prayers. Jesus said, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins” (Mark 11:25 NIV).
Is there someone you’re bitter toward right now? Do you literally sit around thinking of ways to get even? If you have that attitude towards someone, it can hinder your prayers from reaching God.

#3. Doubt. Finally, you know it is impossible to please God without faith. And, as the Bible says in Hebrews 11:6 that he that comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Precious one, as you confess and abandon sin, forgive people’s offences toward you, and pray in faith, may you experience speedy and positive answers to your prayers.

Prayer : Heavenly Father, as I pray according to Your will, let my answers manifest speedily, in Jesus’ name. Amen.