Persistence in Prayer
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
This verse tells us to pray continually giving thanks in all circumstances. Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. (Luke 18:1) Jesus is telling us to keep praying and to never give up. We reveal our faith by prayer and our dependence on the God to get through life as his servant.
All prayer is for the glory of God and persistence means we never give up on God. We trust His answer and His timing because He is the Master, and we are the servant. Patience is needed when we pray because we trust God’s timing. Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. (Daniel 6:10) Daniel prayed to the true God, but King Darius had Daniel thrown in the lion’s den because he didn’t pray to the king. God closed the mouths of the lions and Daniel was saved.
Daniel is a good model for our prayer times, three times per day. If we depend on God and have a close relationship with Christ, praying three times per day and communing with God throughout our days is natural for us. However, finding time can be difficult with our jobs, our kids, and our daily chores. But if we truly want to pray, we can find three five-minute times throughout the day. These times will be a blessing to us, and provide periods of divine rest.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. (Ephesians 6:18) Pray with a thankful heart, and always pray for Lord’s people all over the world because many Christians are being martyred or jailed. We always include guidance to bring people into our path that we can tell about Christ.
Today, seek to pray three times, even though it might be challenging. Always pray so it will bring glory to God. Pray persistently until you are sure God answers, and always thank the Lord for his answer.
Prayer: Guide me in the Spirit to pray three time per day and to commune with You for guidance in witnessing to people. Thank you, Lord, for always being with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen