Does God Hear Silent Prayers?

Does God hear silent prayers? I remember a couple years ago talking to a friend of mine who said that, “God only hears prayers spoken out loud.” This question bothered me because there are many moments in life when we do not have the chance to speak out loud.

What is so amazing is how God revealed this question of mine through the story of Hannah. Now Hannah was a woman who had not yet had a child. During Biblical times it was seen negatively on the woman if they did not have any children. So Hannah decided to pray.

The Bible follows the story saying, “…as she continued praying before the Lord, that Eli was watching her mouth. 13 As for Hannah, she was speaking in her heart, only her lips were moving, but her voice was not heard….” (1 Samuel 1:12-13). Here the Bible clearly gives an instance of silent prayer. Hannah was speaking, “in her heart” as she prayed. God blessed Hannah with a wonderful son named Samuel. My friend the best prayers come from our heart. That is the beginning of genuine prayer.

In Japanese culture they bow as a sign of respect. We bow our heads when we pray out of respect also. We are taking our eyes and placing them on Christ. Ultimately it is not about whether we are on our knees or if our heads are bowed; it is about placing our trust in God. As you pray remember that you are speaking to a God who is full of love towards you. As believers, we go to God as our Father. He hears prayers that are silent, shouted, whispered, and sung

Prayer is not complicated. It is communication with God. When we talk to God, we are in essence praying. Remember when Hannah prayed for her child, she prayed, “In her heart.” The Bible defines her words as a prayer, so even a silent prayer is a prayer. Pray always! Even if you cannot speak loudly, pray under your breath. Know that when you pray, you are talking to the one who loves you. You are praying to the one who gave His life for you.