God is the Creator of the entire universe. He knows all things and nothing can be hidden from Him. He has control over everything (Psalm 24:1). When he understood God's might, King Nebuchadnezzar said, He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed (Daniel 7:14).
And yet, this powerful God is kind and loving enough to allow certain mere mortals to influence Him. His love for those He created can sway Him and what He chooses to do in certain situations.
Take Abraham for instance. God gave him advanced knowledge of what was going to happen to Sodom and Gomorrah. When Abraham learned of the region's impending destruction, he pleaded with God. He asked the Lord to relent in His judgment if there were at least 10 righteous people. God agreed. Alas when He sent His angels, only Abraham's nephew, Lot, and three of his family members qualified to make it out alive.
Then there was Moses. When his people resorted to idolatry right after promising God they wouldn't, the Lord threatened to wipe them out and start over with Moses's family as the ones who would inherit His promises (Exodus 32:9). Rather than take advantage of that opportunity, Moses begged for mercy. The Bible teaches that "...the Lord relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened. (Exodus 32:14).
Joshua was no different. Like his predecessor, Moses, he pleaded with God on behalf of his people after their defeat at the City of Ai (Joshua 7:6-9). He also believed in God's promise to give him success and commanded the sun and moon to stand still during a major battle. The Lord backed his word according to Joshua 10:13 - ...So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies...
As we can see from these examples, incredible feats are possible for those who have the ear of God. Such individuals seem to be able to influence God and all that is under His authority.
Let us pay attention to the characteristics displayed by the individuals above. Abraham was an intercessor who obeyed God and developed a close relationship with Him. That's why he was told what was to come. Moses walked in the fear and trembling of God. He didn't hesitate to put himself in the line of God's wrath to protect others. In so doing, he put their needs and the needs of God before His own. Joshua was also God's obedient servant. He trusted God and received power to influence the sun and the moon. Additionally, he kept his word. He'd asked for the sun and moon to stay still so he could protect the Gibeonites with whom his people were in covenant.
We too can have the ear of God when we live righteously, as well as walk in faith and complete submission. As we study His word, allow it to transform us, and put the needs of others above ours, we become more like those whom God is willing to listen to. Our petitions, when aligned with His character and will, can then save many lives and impact history. May the good Lord enable us via His grace to be those who have His ear, IJMN Amen.
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PS: For the singles heading out on dates for Valentine's Day, please remember not to fornicate. Your body is for the Lord per 1 Corinthians 6:13. Though you are not yet married, it is in singlehood that you begin to keep the marriage bed undefiled (Hebrews 13:4). The good Lord will help you and give you strength. Still, you have to choose to not put yourself in a situation that could lead to problems. Focus on pleasing God and not your flesh. This is key to becoming and remaining one who has the ear of God. God bless you, IJMN, Amen.
And the sped-up version: