February 1, 2023: Pray And Never Give Up

 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.” (Luke 18:1, NLT)

I like the fact that Jesus tells stories. It makes it easier to remember the truth He was trying to impart. Prayer is such a foundational part of the believer’s life. Jesus modeled it for His disciples continually. He was up early before the sun, praying. When the day was over, and the sun was down, He would go to a solitary place to pray; sometimes, it was all night long. One preacher said years ago, “Jesus went from one place of prayer to the next and in between worked miracles.” To the best that I can see, Jesus never got discouraged in the place of prayer. In fact, He seems to be encouraged. What would seem to be impossible if you have been in the presence of the Father?
 
Often we face discouraging circumstances. The situation may seem bleak. And God does not appear to be interested in our prayer. But Jesus’ answer is to pray. Pray all the time, and do not let yourself get discouraged. We must be persistent in our prayer, like the woman in Jesus’ story. It is not about wearing God down until He answers. It is about knowing that God is good. And a good God is far more willing to work on our behalf than a weary judge is. So pray! Pray all the time! And do not give up. Your prayers are making a difference.