Our prayer guide today had us read the story of the persistent widow in Luke 18. She badgered the unrighteous judge until he answered her request just to make her go away. It is one of those unusual parables Jesus tells, but as always, it has a powerful point. “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” Luke 18:1.
I would say it often happens that I pray and do lose heart. You make something a matter of prayer for several weeks and you don’t see an answer. As time goes on it begins to fade from your mind. It seems that God isn’t going to answer that one. However, in the closing line of the parable Jesus asks a challenging question, “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Luke 18:8. Will we keep praying, even if the answers are delayed? Will we trust God is in control when we don’t see the results? Will we remain faithful and pray for the long haul? God knows His plan and acts just at the right moment, but that is often not the moment we were hoping. So, for today’s prayer time, think back over those prayers you have forgotten. Those tough situations that don’t seem like they are going to change. Renew those prayers in which you have lost heart. Pray them fresh again to God. Trust Him for the timing to answer them.