During the 400 “silent years” between the Old and New Testaments, God’s people faced a devastating drought with no prophet speaking on their behalf — except one man. Pastor Matty George opens our new series, The Circle Maker, with the true story of Honi, and what his boldness teaches us about how we pray.
Honi Drew a Circle and Refused to Move
Facing a nationwide drought, Honi stepped outside the walls of Jerusalem, drew a circle with his staff, knelt inside it, and told God he would not leave until mercy came. Rain fell — but Honi kept asking for exactly the right kind of rain, teaching us that vague prayers reflect poor faith, while specific prayers honor a God who wants to be asked.
Bold Prayers Honor God
Jesus taught that if we, though flawed, know how to give good gifts to our children, how much more will our Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask (Matthew 7:9–11). God is not a reluctant stranger, a malicious tyrant, or an indulgent grandparent — He is a good Father who wants to be asked boldly.
Standing on the Certainty of God ‘s Promises
Before Israel ever raised a weapon against Jericho, God had already declared the city delivered into their hands (Joshua 6:2). His people are invited to stand on His promises of sovereign provision (Philippians 4:19), guidance and clarity (James 1:5), and unshakable presence (Hebrews 13:5).
Radical Obedience Unlocks the Promise
God’s instructions for taking Jericho looked nothing like a battle plan — march, don’t fight, and shout. It looked ridiculous. But it was obedience, not military strength, that brought the walls down.
What ‘s Your Jericho?
Every believer carries a wall that looks impossible to bring down — an illness, a broken relationship, an unmet need, a vision without provision. This message calls us to circle that need in prayer and trust God to bring it down.
Key Scripture References
- Joshua 6:20 — “When the trumpet sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed.”
- Matthew 7:9–11 — On God as a good Father who gives good gifts to those who ask
- Philippians 4:19 — “And God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
- James 1:5 — On God giving wisdom generously to those who ask
- Hebrews 13:5 — “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
