What should we expect when we pray?

In this message, we continue our teaching during Fervent Week of Prayer by confronting a quiet but common form of spiritual complacency: prayer that speaks to God but never listens for Him.

Drawing from multiple passages throughout Scripture—including Acts, James, Jeremiah, and the life of Jesus—this teaching reminds us that prayer was never meant to be a one-way conversation. Again and again, the Bible shows a consistent pattern: when God’s people prayed, God responded—with direction, wisdom, correction, comfort, and clarity.

In this message, we explore:

• Why Scripture presents prayer as a conversation, not a ritual

• How expectation shapes our experience of prayer

• Why apathy often grows when prayer becomes passive or disengaged

• Jesus’ own example of withdrawing to hear the Father’s voice

• How fervent prayer requires intention, focus, and discipline

• Why learning to hear God’s voice begins by actually seeking it

• How prayer is meant to build up not only individuals, but the entire body of Christ

We are also reminded that hearing from God is not reserved for a select few—it is part of the normal Christian life and essential for Spirit-led ministry within the church. When believers engage God personally in prayer, the result is a community strengthened by timely encouragement, direction, and care.

This message leads into a time of corporate prayer, inviting the church to listen, respond, and trust that God is present and active among His people.

If your prayer life has felt distant, routine, or silent, this teaching calls you to re-engage with expectation—believing that God still speaks and desires to lead His people today.