Introduction

• Begin with a question: “Have you ever prayed and wondered if God heard you? Have you looked for signs that your prayers are being answered?”
• Introduce the idea that seeking evidence of answered prayers is not a lack of faith but a biblical practice that can strengthen trust in God.
• Frame the message: God meets us in our doubts, provides evidence in various forms, and calls us to bold, persistent prayer.

1. God Meets Us in Our Doubts

• Biblical Examples:
  • Hezekiah: God extended his life and moved the sundial shadow backward as a sign (2 Kings 20:1-11).
  • Thomas: Jesus offered His wounds as evidence to strengthen Thomas’ faith (John 20:24-29).
• Point: God does not condemn doubt but provides reassurance to meet us where we are.

2. Evidence Comes in Many Forms

• Biblical Examples:
  • Abraham’s Servant: A specific prayer for Isaac’s wife was answered through Rebekah’s actions (Genesis 24:12-27).
  • Gideon: Wet and dry fleeces confirmed God’s will (Judges 6:36-40).
  • Elijah: A small cloud signaled rain after persistent prayer (1 Kings 18:41-45).
  • Joshua: The sun and moon stood still during battle (Joshua 10:12-14).
• Modern Application: Evidence may come through scripture, sermons, fellow believers, or unexpected opportunities.

3. Asking for Evidence Is Encouraged

• Biblical Examples:
  • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God.”
  • Moses: Received signs (staff to serpent, leprous hand) as assurance of his calling (Exodus 4:1-8).
  • Gideon: Sought confirmation multiple times in critical moments.
• Point: God honors sincere requests for clarity, especially when stakes are high.

4. Persistence in Prayer Matters

• Biblical Examples:
  • Elijah: Sent his servant seven times to look for rain (1 Kings 18:41-45).
  • Jesus’ Parable: The persistent widow demonstrates the power of continual prayer (Luke 18:1-8).
• Point: Persistent prayer builds faith and trust in God’s timing, even when answers seem delayed.

5. Evidence Strengthens Trust

• Biblical Examples:
  • Hezekiah and the Sundial: Reinforced faith in God’s promise.
  • Moses and the Signs: Equipped him with confidence for his calling.
• Point: God uses evidence to deepen trust and empower believers for His purposes.

6. Blessed Are Those Who Believe Without Evidence

• Biblical Example:
  • Jesus’ words to Thomas: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
• Point: While evidence strengthens faith, God blesses those who take Him at His word without demanding signs.

Conclusion

• Recap: God meets us in doubt, provides evidence in various ways, and calls us to bold, persistent prayer. These practices strengthen faith and help us trust in His plans.
• Call to Action:
  • Be bold in prayer—ask God for evidence when clarity is needed.
  • Be persistent—trust that God hears and answers in His timing.
  • Be vigilant—look for the ways God provides confirmation, even in small signs.
• Close with encouragement: “God is faithful. Whether through miraculous signs or quiet reassurance, He meets us where we are to strengthen our faith. Keep seeking, keep asking, and trust that He is working in your life.”