Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, (Lk. 18:1 NAS)
Prayer is a foundational piece in our Christian lives. Jesus made the remarkable statement above that “at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart”. Prayer was a challenge 2000 years ago, just as it is today. As a matter of fact, the challenge seems to be getting worse today.
Why do we lose heart in prayer? The parable in Luke 18 offers one of the reasons: answers can be delayed, for many reasons. It takes bold faith to continue to pray when there seems to be no results. We live in a “nano generation” that seems to be running short on patience. Our daily schedules tell us we do not have the time for patience! A teenager today has a schedule that could be 10 times busier than father Abraham in his days! These are the realities we have to deal with today, yet the importance of prayer is increasing. Prayer is vital, but does not come cheap. Fight for your prayer life!
MEDITATE
Think for a moment on this statement that you “ought to pray and not to lose heart”. How does that apply to you? What makes you lose heart in prayer?
PRAY
Pray and ask the Lord to strengthen you in your battle to keep the faith.
APPLY THE WORD TODAY!
If you have never been discouraged in prayer, then you are one unique believer! I have had my moments when I felt there was no need to pray any longer, but the Lord took me through them. Maybe your prayer life is in ruins, and you have no plans to recover it. Maybe an experience has brought you to the conclusion that prayer is not worth it. Take a step of faith and trust the Lord. Prayer is a mystery, and Satan will do all to keep you away from it. Fight for your prayer life!
Recommended Read: The Power of Prayer
Must Read!: What is a Daily Devotional?
