The Lie That Heaven Is Beyond Reach - Friday Praise & Pray (for others) November 7, 2025

Do you know somebody who thinks they won't make it to heaven? Such a person might believe their sins are too many or too bad for God to forgive them. They are unaware of people like David and Paul, both murderers, whom God showed mercy and elevated to greatness. Instead, they've listened to satan's lies that they are too far gone for God to do anything for or with. They, therefore, choose to live in debauchery and sin.

It is easy to discount such individuals and think there is no redemption for them, but if God had applied that approach to humanity, He would never have sent Jesus to die for our sins. As such, it is imperative to see them as the Lord does, as people, made in His image, who deserve His grace and love. Here are a few specific things you, as a believer in Jesus Christ, could be doing for them.

First, fast and pray for them. These people have been deceived by the devil. They therefore believe that heaven is beyond their reach. But you, as a believer, know that Jesus died to make God and heaven accessible to sinners. That includes them. So fast and pray for the scales to fall from their eyes and hearts so they can come to know the truth.

Second, let your light shine. You are God's ambassador. Be mindful that your behavior displays His truth and salvation. Do you reflect the kingdom you belong to, or are you living like everyone else? You are uniquely equipped to shine God's light through your words and especially your actions. Doing so can advertise that there is a better alternative to their current lifestyle. You might be sowing a seed that will germinate later and contribute to their freedom.

Third, don't condemn such people. The devil wants them to believe they don't deserve mercy. Don't agree with satan's objective but agree with God's instead. He doesn't want any soul to perish in hell, so treat such people with the love of Christ (2 Peter 3:9). They may do and say hurtful things, but overlook the hurtful things they do and don't condemn them. According to Proverbs 19:11, doing so will bring you glory.

Fourth, be patient. You might be praying and fasting for someone's soul only to see the very opposite of all you've prayed for. Don't be discouraged. Be patient and continue to persevere. Jesus told us to persist in prayer and be audacious when we approach God. What more when praying for the soul of someone He loves and wants to have a relationship with?

If you worry that being in proximity to such a person's lifestyle could pull you away from the Lord, then express your love quietly from a distance (Galatians 6:1). For instance, they don't need to know you are fasting and praying for them. It is only God who needs to know what you are investing for their souls. Know that God will reward your labor of love and trust Him to answer your prayers on their behalf.

God cares about souls, so you should, too. He doesn't want people to miss heaven because of the deception that God's mercy is inaccessible. Yes, heaven is off-limits to those who will not repent and believe in Jesus (John 14:6). And yes, we know that blaspheming the Holy Spirit is unpardonable (Mark 3:29).

Still, as believers, we must counter the diabolical narrative that God doesn't want the worst sinners to escape hell. We were all on the way to damnation before Jesus found us, cleansed us, and seated us in heavenly places with Him (Ephesians 2:6). The Lord will surely help us to be of service to those who have been deceived into thinking there's no heavenly hope for them, IJMN, Amen.

And if you think heaven is beyond your reach, please know that Jesus died for you. He loves you and can have a spot waiting for you in heaven if you desire. Tell Him you want to see Him there. He's always listening to you. God bless you!

As you wait for fellowship at 12 Noon EST, consider reading the following previous P&P messages:

1. Blindness

2. P&P 200: The Ticket to Heaven

3. Dear Peppers: The Uneven Exchange

4. How To Approach God

5. Be About The Father's Business

6. Shameless Audacity

7. How Can Light Be Darkness?

8. Topic: Fasting

9. Topic: Intercessor & Intercession

10. Topic: Satan's Lies

11. Topic: How satan Speaks

12. Topic: The Royal Law