The following "Question" was asked by a member of the congregation at Grace Community Church in Panorama City, California, and "Answered" by their pastor, John MacArthur Jr. It was transcribed from the tape, GC 1358, titled "How to Pray."  A copy of the tape can be obtained by writing, Word of Grace, P.O. Box 4000, Panorama City, CA 91412 or by dialing toll free 1-800-55-GRACE. Copyright 2001 by John MacArthur Jr., All Rights Reserved.

Question

When we pray does Satan hear our prayers? Or can he listen to us?

Answer

Yes, if we pray audibly I think he can. But I don't think it matters a whole life. I think he can hear what you say out loud, but I'm not convinced he can hear the prayers of your heart before God. I don't think he's omniscient as we've covered in our series on that. I don't think Satan knows the secret prayer of your heart but I think he hears what you say. But frankly, the best time to hear you would be when you're praying because you're really in the right context there. So I don't think it makes any difference that he hears, I hope he hears a lot of things I say.

Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "MacArthur’s Questions and Answers" by:

Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
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