Things That Hinder Prayer

“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer is one of the greatest blessings available to the Christian. It’s our direct line of communication with God, our refuge in trouble, and our expression of praise and thanksgiving. But what if something is blocking that connection? Scripture warns us that certain attitudes and behaviors can hinder our prayers—effectively cutting us off from one of the greatest spiritual privileges.

Let’s consider the most serious barriers to effective prayer:

1. Being Outside of Christ

Many people believe anyone can pray to God and expect Him to listen. But the Bible teaches otherwise. According to Scripture, only those “in Christ” receive the spiritual blessings that include answered prayer (Ephesians 1:3). To be “in Christ,” one must obey the Gospel—hearing, believing, repenting, confessing Christ, and being baptized into Him (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3). John 9:31 plainly states, “Now we know that God heareth not sinners.”

2. Lack of Faith

Hebrews 11:6 tells us that without faith, it’s impossible to please God. James warns that anyone who prays without faith is “like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.” (James 1:6). Prayers must be made in full confidence—not demanding our desires but trusting God’s perfect will (1 John 5:14-15).

3. Disobedience

A lifestyle of disobedience can silence our prayers. 1 John 3:22 says, “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments.” Even specific actions, like how a husband treats his wife (1 Peter 3:7), or whether a woman respects God’s order regarding her covering (1 Corinthians 11), are tied to the effectiveness of our prayers. Willful sin, habitual rebellion, or careless living can block our access to the throne of grace.

4. An Unforgiving Spirit

Jesus plainly stated, “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:15). When we hold grudges or refuse to forgive, we cut ourselves off from the mercy we so desperately need.

Are You Able to Pray?

If there is sin in your life or if you are not yet “in Christ,” the solution is not to stop praying—but to take the necessary steps to restore your relationship with God. For the sinner, that means obeying the Gospel. For the erring Christian, it means repentance and a return to walking in the light (1 John 1:7-9).

Let nothing stand between you and your Father in heaven. The line is open—but only if nothing is blocking the signal.