WHEN WE PRAY, WE TALK TO GOD; WHEN WE READ THE BIBLE, GOD SPEAKS TO US
When We Pray, We Talk to God; When We Read the Bible, God Talks to Us
Introduction
Which is more important: obeying God’s commandments or continuously
presenting our requests in prayer? To truly understand this, we must first
acknowledge that while we bring our needs before God, He already knows them
better than we do. Often, we are unaware of what is truly best for
us—but God understands completely. Instead of focusing solely on our desires,
our prayers should prioritize gratitude and reverence for His wisdom and
guidance.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and
petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6
(NIV)
Obeying God’s Commandments: A Higher
Priority than Petitions
Many people, overwhelmed by life’s challenges, ask, “Why does God remain
hidden? Why doesn’t He appear or speak to us?” While understandable, this
question reflects a misunderstanding of how God communicates. Some assume that
if God appeared physically, they would instantly believe and follow Him.
However, history suggests otherwise. Even if He manifested visibly, would
people recognize Him? The likelihood is slim.
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27 (NIV)
The Consequences of Disobedience in
the Bible
Consider Adam, who once enjoyed close fellowship with God in the Garden
of Eden. Despite this intimacy, when God, seeing Adam’s need for companionship,
created a partner for him, both Adam and Eve chose to disobey Him.
Throughout the Old Testament, God directly communicated with His people,
sending prophets to guide them. Yet, time and again, they refused to listen.
Their repeated disobedience led to divine discipline and hardship. Even when
God Himself came to Earth in the form of Jesus Christ, hoping to draw people
closer to Him, they rejected and crucified Him, declaring, “Let us rid
ourselves of Him so we can live without His interference.” How should the
Creator respond to such rejection?
“But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he turned and became
their enemy and he himself fought against them.” — Isaiah 63:10
(NIV)
Understanding God’s Heart: The
Creator’s Dilemma
Imagine a man who painstakingly designs a robot, intending for it to
love, respect, and obey him. Instead, the robot mocks him, disregards his
instructions, and acts contrary to its intended purpose. What would the creator
do? He might decide to dismantle it and build a better version.
This analogy reflects how humanity often treats God. Despite our
intelligence, many of us lack the spiritual wisdom to recognize the depth of
God’s love and purpose for us. He created us for a divine mission, yet we
frequently turn away from Him.
“The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any
who understand, any who seek God.” — Psalm 14:2 (NIV)
The Importance of Obeying God’s Word
Instead of merely presenting complaints in prayer, we should dedicate
ourselves to studying and living by God’s commandments. While He hears our
petitions, what truly pleases Him is a heart of gratitude, regardless of our
circumstances. Genuine faith is demonstrated through obedience to His Word and
alignment with His divine will. This is the key to spiritual growth and a life
that honors God.
“If you love me, keep my commands.” — John 14:15 (NIV)
God Speaks to Us Today Through His
Word
God continues to speak—not through physical appearances, but through His
Word, the Bible. Everything He desires to communicate is found within its
sacred pages. The Bible provides guidance for every area of our
lives—physically, spiritually, emotionally, materially, and eternally.
As we read and meditate on Scripture, we receive wisdom, comfort, and
direction. The Bible nourishes our hearts, strengthens our faith, and draws us
closer to God. When we listen to His Word and live by it, we truly allow God to
speak to us and transform our lives.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105
(NIV)
