Lord, teach us to pray (Part VIII)
Posted By admin1 on April 21, 2009
And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought to pray, and not to faint (St. Luke 18:1).
One of our major infirmities is lack of endurance. Infirmities in earlier lessons were described as spiritual weaknesses. Lack of patience results often in our lack of stamina to hold on long enough. We become impatient praying for the same thing for an extended period of time. Thus, we easily give up praying because the results are not immediate enough for us. Yet, the bible teaches us of patience, endurance and diligence in our prayers. We have to be willing to wait on the Lord (Psalms 27:14) believing that he is faithful who has promised (Hebrews 11:11). It takes faith to wait on the Lord without murmuring.
It is the faith which God rewards if we wait and faint not (Galatians 6:9). Our faith in God should also recognize that God has an appointed time for our deliverance (Genesis 18:12-14).
Our faith in God should make us not to give up no matter how long it takes to receive our request. Hannah did not stop going to Shiloh to pray, even though her prayer did not produce immediate results . But she continued to pour her soul before God for many years (I Samuel 1). Faith involves both unwavering believe in our deliverance and holding on to that belief that eventually our prayers will be answered: “but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope” (Romans 5:3-4).
Our prayers must be continuous despite the challenging situations we may face. By continuing in prayer whilst waiting for our prayers to be answered, our strength will be renewed if we are waiting in faith (Isaiah 40:31). It is this faith displayed by Noah that was counted for righteousness (Hebrews 11:7). Noah preached for many years before the flood came and continued to believe that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6).
In our prayers, let us remember that God is always on time. He may not come when we expect him. Yet, his promises are sure, and he knoweth that them that trust in him (Nehum 1:7). Our faith should help us to withstand trials even for a long extended time, and still believe in God’s deliverance.The children of Israel suffered for 430 years as Egyptians slaves. They cried unto the Lord, and the Lord delivered them. Let us hold onto the Lord and pray without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17), knowing that God’s hand is not shortened to save nor are his ears heavy to hear when we call upon His name (Isaiah 59:1).
For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry (Hebrews 10:36-37).
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We have to pray believing that we shall receive (St. Mark 11verse 24). I agree with St. Daphne; well said.
Well said.