In this powerful episode of A Reason for Hope Podcast, Alanis Gonzalez and Matt Pana dive deep into one of the most important questions in the spiritual life: What truly moves the heart of God in prayer?

Why does God answer some prayers and not others? How do we discern His timing? What does it actually mean to “find favor” with the Lord? And how can we grow in a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him—especially in seasons of silence, spiritual dryness, or waiting?

Drawing from Scipture, the story of Hannah, the teachings of the Church, and personal testimony, this conversation explores:

 ✨ Bold, authentic, heart-level prayer

 ✨ God’s providential timing vs. our expectations

 ✨ Spiritual apathy, comparison, and performative faith

 ✨ How intimacy with God transforms our desires

 ✨ Why unanswered prayers are not unheard prayers

✨ The role of humility, endurance, and purification in the Catholic spiritual life

✨ How sacraments—especially the Eucharist—restore, strengthen, and favor us

Sciptures Quoted:

1 Samuel

Isaiah 43

Romans 5

Genesis 6

Exodus 3

Whether you're struggling to hear God, longing for spiritual renewal, or seeking a deeper prayer life, this episode will bring clarity, encouragement, and hope.

You are favored. You are chosen. And God bends His ear toward every prayer you breathe.

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⏰Timecode⏰

00:00 Introduction

01:20 Start of Interview

03:40 Common Misconceptions about Prayers Being Answered

09:44 What are the requirements to be favored by God?

13:00 How do we strengthen our relationship with the Lord?

15:28 Why does God not answer some prayers

20:58 Biblical Figures Who Found Favor with the Lord

23:04 Importance of Receiving the Sacraments

25:28 Importance of the Eucharist