My son and I headed to my sister’s to install some new light fixtures for her. My son was the one to handle the electrical work. I was the gopher and touch up painter. One of the kitchen lights was being particularly difficult. Since, I was hungry and wanting to go get dinner, I decided to tackle the bathroom light to move us along faster.

Since I had never done this before, I double checked my work with the onsite expert. I had the light up and secured to the wall in just a few minutes. I was so proud of myself. Kellen had finished the kitchen and we were ready to turn the electricity back on. Kitchen lights came on perfectly. Bathroom light made a buzzing noise and blew the breaker.

Kellen to the rescue? He takes it all apart and doesn’t see anything wrong. He disconnects the wires and resets them just in case. We decided to check the light before putting it back on the wall. With Kellen holding the light, we flipped the breaker and he got jolted. His attention was grabbed.

So many times in my life I have asked God, “Are you trying to tell me something? If so, just hit me over the head with it.” There have been times when God has been very clear with me. One time, it was a chill down my spine. However, most of the time, I find myself questioning, praying then questioning, and praying and then questioning and praying more. The whole time I’m asking to be jolted. I want the message loud and clear.

The ancient Abyss grabbed me and held tight. My head was all tangled in seaweed at the bottom of the sea where the mountains take root. I was as far down as a body can go, and the gates were slamming shut behind me forever— Yet you pulled me up from that grave alive, O God, my God! When my life was slipping away, I remembered God, And my prayer got through to you, made it all the way to your Holy Temple. Those who worship hollow gods, god-frauds, walk away from their only true love. But I’m worshiping you, God, calling out in thanksgiving! And I’ll do what I promised I’d do! Salvation belongs to God!” ( Jonah 2:5-9 MSG).

Jonah was jolted by God. More importantly when Jonah felt so far from God, when life was slipping away, he remembered God, and his prayer was answered. God hears and answers our prayers. Sometimes He answered them with a jolt, and sometimes it is more subtle. Even when God feels far away, He answers our prayer!

How do you know when God answers your prayers? Do you need to be jolted? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.