Hindrances to Prayer: Reasons God May Not Answer Your PrayersSample

Idolatry

When we value, love, or pursue anything or anyone more than God, it becomes an idol to us. Idols are not just carved objects or statues. They are our innermost desires that can take the form of a job, material goods, a goal, or even people and loved ones we depend upon more than God for security and happiness. God is very clear that nothing should take His place in our lives. Not only is it the first commandment in the Old Testament, but also the greatest commandment according to Jesus in the New Testament.

Exodus 20:3 - You must not have any other god but me.

Matthew 22:36-40 - Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the Law of Moses? Jesus replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.

Ezekiel 14:3 - Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?

Psalm 24:3-5 - Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the Lord’s blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior.

Reflect: What is the reward for not worshiping idols?

Ephesians 5:5 - You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.

Colossians 3:5-6 - So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.

Reflect: In the above scriptures, who is an idolater and what do they worship?

1 Corinthians 10:12-14 - If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols.

Reflect: What is God’s promise to us when we are tempted by idols? We have all His power with us as we navigate the trials of life. Let His faithfulness be your joy as you turn away from sinful old habits and run after Him with all your might. Joy and peace that surpasses all understanding will become evident in your life as you continue in perseverance in keeping Him on the Throne of your heart.