With the assurance of eternal life comes the certainty of answered prayer. As articulated by R. A. Torrey, “Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power.” This profound power of prayer is available to us. We must actively engage it by keeping God’s commands. We also need to please Him and ask according to His will. With these principles, John assures us we can be confident in prayer. We know that God hears us. He will fulfill our requests.

George Mueller was a respected figure of faith. He emphasized that “prayer is not overcoming God’s reluctance; it is laying hold of His willingness.” Understanding God’s will is crucial since His intentions align with our ultimate good and His glory. Though His will can differ from ours, Romans 12:2 reminds us that God’s will is “good, pleasing, and perfect.”

In 1 John 5:16–17, the focus shifts from petitions to intercession, specifically about sin. John differentiates between sin that does not lead to death and sin that does. The latter is often interpreted as the total rejection of the gospel, resulting in spiritual death. Various interpretations suggest it is a specific, deliberate sin against the Holy Spirit or the total rejection of Christ.

Renowned theologian D. Edmond Hiebert provides clarity, indicating that rejecting the incarnate Son of God leads to “sin unto death.” Thus, for those resolutely rejecting biblical teachings about Jesus, prayer is futile.

Despite these warnings, John reaffirms that prayer remains a powerful means to confront and conquer sin. Charles Spurgeon eloquently states, “All hell is vanquished when the believer bows his knee in importunate supplication.” Prayer connects us with the eternal, omnipotent God, serving as our chief resort.

Let us commit to prayer. Be faithful to God’s cause. Embrace the assurance that when we align with God, He stands with us.