Your Prayer Might Be Answered Ezekiel 14:3-4

3 "Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts, and put before them that which causes them to stumble into iniquity. Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by them? 4 Therefore speak to them, and say to them, 'Thus says the Lord God: "Everyone of the house of Israel who sets up his idols in his heart, and puts before him what causes him to stumble into iniquity, and then comes to the prophet, I the Lord will answer him who comes, according to the multitude of his idols

The Text Idol = Anyone or anything which has a higher priority and place than God. Men set up idols – in their heart God's answer – God will answer them according to their idols WARNING: God may give you what you ask for and have your heart set upon.

Examples in the Bible Baalam – wanted to curse Israel Begged and pleaded Tried to curse but blessed Israel Finally – got his desire – Israel in adultery

Examples in the Bible King Saul Saved King Agag Sacrficed witout Samuel present Went to witch of Endor In one day he lost all his sons, his army, his kingdom And he killed himself in dispair

Examples in the Bible Rich Young Ruler Wanted eternal life Was obedient to the law of Moses What else was needed? Sell possessions and give to the poor His wealth was his “idol”and he could not let go

Doctrinal Application Faith only Infant baptism Instrumental music in worship Pray the sinner's prayer

Doctrinal Application Once Saved, Always Saved Keep the 10 commandments Morality is good enough Jesus will return to set up His kingdom

Garth Brooks Song Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers Remember when you're talkin' to the man upstairs That just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers

Conclusion Idols = Immoral activity Doctrinal error Material possessions Our dreams, goals, ambitions

Conclusion WARNING When we set up an idol in our heart; Then ask God to help us God may answer us according to our idol.