“All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
Quote
“All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther emphasizes the power and certainty of prayer when it is offered with genuine faith and sincerity. Luther stresses that those who call on God from a place of true faith, with an earnest and heartfelt desire, will not only be heard but will also receive what they ask for. The core message here is that God is attentive to the prayers of those who approach Him with a sincere heart and a deep trust in His will. Luther’s view reflects the Christian understanding that God is compassionate and responsive to the needs of His people, especially when their prayers are aligned with faith and a desire to do His will.
Luther’s teaching on prayer was shaped by his belief in the grace of God and the direct relationship between the believer and God. Unlike the medieval Church’s emphasis on intercessions by priests or saints, Luther believed that all Christians, regardless of status, could approach God directly through prayer. The key to being heard, according to Luther, is not the ritual or the number of words used, but the sincerity and faith behind the prayer. This aligns with his doctrine of justification by faith alone, where the believer’s relationship with God is built on trust rather than ritualistic acts or external mediations.
In modern times, this quote can serve as a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of faith in seeking guidance, comfort, or assistance from God. It speaks to the personal nature of prayer—that each individual, no matter their situation, can approach God directly with a sincere heart, trusting that He will respond. Whether in moments of distress, gratitude, or supplication, this quote encourages believers to engage with God in honesty and faith, knowing that He hears and responds to those who earnestly call on Him.