Psalm 6:9  The Lord has heard my plea for help; the Lord accepts my prayer. (CSB)

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I preached in the place of a pastor friend yesterday while he was enjoying time away with his family. The message was about praying for prodigals. After the service, a man told me a story about being one of those prodigals who had found his way home. Another man told me about his son, who had lived a prodigal lifestyle but also made his way home. 

These were encouraging stories. Reading this verse from this psalm this morning, I cannot help but think this is what those men and their families experienced. 

What prayers has God answered for you? 
What prayers has God answered for you recently?
What prayers are you taking to God today?

I began cultivating a prayer list many years ago. It is arranged by the days of the week and levels of relationships. It includes virtues I want God to increase in my life and in the lives of those I love. This has helped me experience focus and clarity in prayer. 

These prayers have been fruitful and effective. Inviting God to have his will and way in our lives is a prayer he loves to answer in the affirmative. He also hears and answers our prayers for others when we seek these benefits for them. 

Whatever and whoever you are praying for, keep good records—record when you begin praying and when God says Yes. Write Psalm 6:9 next to that good news. 

I love the way The Message paraphrases this verse: 

My requests have all been granted,
my prayers are answered.

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I will thank God today for answered prayer.

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Our Father, thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. This encourages us to bring more prayers to you. We seek your highest and best for those we love, those we serve, and those we serve alongside. We want what you want for those who wander without your guidance. We eagerly desire true transformation that builds grace-filled lives, homes, and communities. We come to you confidently today because you hear and accept our prayers. Amen.