Can our prayers actually change God’s plans? (Spoiler: Yes.)
Have you ever wondered if your prayers really matter or if they truly can make a difference? I know I have! When things seem like they can’t be changed—when bad things are about to happen, decisions seem final, and the future feels set in stone, does it make any difference to cry out to God?
I think most of us have felt completely powerless and small when faced with problems that seem too big for us. But what if one honest, heartfelt prayer could touch God’s heart and change things?
The story in Exodus 32 shows us one of the most amazing examples in the Bible where someone’s prayer changed what was about to happen.
The Israelites, who had just been freed from slavery in Egypt, quickly turned away from God even though they had seen God do amazing things for them (heck, God literally parted the sea for them!).
They had become impatient waiting for Moses to return from Mount Sinai, so they made a golden calf to worship. God was furious and told Moses that He planned to destroy them. But Moses stepped in and begged God to spare the people.
What happened next is amazing: the Bible tells us that God “relented” – He changed His mind!
This story gives us a glimpse into the amazing power and mystery of prayer. It shows us a God who is both all-powerful and deeply personal, who has big plans but also invites us, weak and imperfect as we are, to be part of how His will unfolds.
Today’s Scripture
“Then the Lord relented and did not bring on His people the disaster He had threatened.”
EXODUS 32:14 (NIV)
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Breaking Down Today’s Scripture
- “Then the Lord relented”
The Hebrew word used here is “nacham.” This word can mean to feel sorry, to change your mind, or to decide differently. This shows us that after hearing Moses pray, God chose to do something different than what He first said He would do. - “Did not bring on His people the disaster He had threatened”
God had said He would destroy the Israelites because they made and worshipped a golden idol. But after Moses prayed for them, God chose to be merciful instead of punishing them. This shows us how God is willing to forgive and how much He cares about His people.
Faith in Action
Journaling Prompts for Deeper Reflection
Affirmation
My prayers matter to God, and He always hears me.
Closing Prayer
Dear Father,
Thank You for listening when we pray. Just as You heard Moses’ plea for Your people, I trust that You hear my prayers too. Thank You for being a God who cares about our words and responds with mercy. Help me pray boldly, especially for others who need Your help. Remind me that my prayers matter and can truly make a difference. Give me the courage to stand in the gap for those who need mercy, just like Moses did. Thank You for inviting me into this amazing relationship where my voice matters to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
