Jehovah, the "Hearer of Prayer"

Important lessons can be learned from what happened to Israel. We see that Jehovah is "good and ready to forgive." (Psalm 86:5)  As imperfect creatures, we depend on his mercy and forgiveness to receive salvation.  No works of ours can help us to earn these blessings.  However, Jehovah does not extend forgiveness indiscriminately. Only those who repent of their sins and turn around  are in line for divine pardon. -Acts 3:19.

We also learn that Jehovah is keenly interested in our thoughts and feelings when we express them in prayer to him.  He is the "Hearer of prayer."  (Psalm 65:2, 3) The apostle Peter assures us:  "The eyes of Jehovah are upon the righteous ones, and his ears are toward their supplication."  (1 Peter 3:12)  Further, we learn that a prayer of repentance must include a humble confession of sins.  (Proverbs 28:13)  This does not mean, though, that we can presume of God's mercy.  The Bible warns Christians "not to accept the undeserved kindness of God and miss its purpose." - 2 Corinthians 6:1.

Finally, we learn the purpose of God's patience toward his sinful people.  The apostle Peter explained that Jehovah is patient "because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires to attain to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)  Nevertheless, those who persistently abuse God's patience will eventually be punished.  Concerning this we read:  "[Jehovah] will render each one to his works: everlasting life to those who are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibleness by endurance in work that is good; however, for those who are contentious and who disobey the truth but obey unrighteousness there will be wrath and anger." -Romans 2:6-8.

This is the way God dealt with ancient Israel. Our relationship with Jehovah today is governed by the same principle because he does not change.  While not holding back undeserved punishment, he will always be "Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth, preserving loving-kindness for thousands, pardoning error and transgression and sin." -Exodus 34:6, 7.

Next time: "Be Joyful Forever in What I Am Creating", Chapter Twenty-Six

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, Volume II, 2001