He Hears Us - 1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God:
that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.”
1 John 5:14 (NIV)
The Apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, wrote the book of 1 John near the end of his life—around 90 A.D.—to a group of believers facing confusion, false teachings, and spiritual fatigue. Gnosticism (a belief system that denied Jesus’ full divinity and humanity) was creeping into the church, distorting truth and causing people to doubt their faith.
John’s purpose was threefold:
To strengthen believers in their faith in Jesus as the Son of God
To remind them of the foundational truths of the gospel
To assure them of their eternal life and the power of prayer
When John says in 1 John 5:14, “This is the confidence we have…”, he’s not just offering comfort—he’s restoring clarity. He’s reminding them (and us) that faith isn’t fragile when it’s rooted in Christ. We can approach God not with fear, but with certainty—because Jesus made a way.
John wanted believers to know that:
God is light (truth, clarity)
God is love (intimacy, relationship)
God is faithful to hear the prayers of those who trust in Him
This verse is the culmination of the whole book—it reinforces the theme of assurance. That we are truly God’s children, and that He truly hears when we call.
Anchor in the Word
There’s a sacred boldness that comes when you truly believe God is listening.
God is not vaguely aware. God is not casually observing. He is fully, intentionally hearing you—your thoughts, your whispers, your bold declarations, and even the prayers you’re afraid to pray out loud.
1 John 5:14 is an anchor verse for prayer warriors and seekers alike. It reminds us that prayer is not a ritual or formality. It is an act of confidence. A divine invitation to speak directly to the heart of our Creator.
“This is the confidence we have…”
Confidence. Not hesitation. Not fear. But a childlike trust that when we come to Him with our needs, fears, dreams, and burdens—He’s not just aware. He is attentively engaged.
Here’s what the biblical definition of confidence includes:
This is the type of confidence God invites you to pray with—not arrogance, but access.
Ask According to His Will
The second part of this verse is equally vital: “…if we ask anything according to His will…”
This isn't a restriction—it’s a revelation. God's will is not distant or mysterious; it’s loving, wise, and good. When we align our desires with His heart, we’re not twisting His arm—we're tapping into His already-prepared blessings.
It changes how we pray.
It refines what we ask for.
It strengthens our faith when answers feel delayed.
God hears you.
Not because your prayers are eloquent but because you are His and He is always listening—always loving.
Reflection Questions
Do you pray with confidence or caution? What holds you back from praying boldly?
Have you ever experienced God answering a prayer according to His will, even if it looked different than expected?
What is one prayer request you’ve been hesitant to bring to God? Write it down and bring it to Him today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of confident prayer. Thank You for hearing me—not just when I speak with strength, but even when I whisper in weakness. Teach me to seek Your will above my own. Align my desires with Your heart. Remind me that You are always near, always listening, always loving. I come to You boldly today, trusting that You hear every word I speak in faith.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.