Persistence in Prayer

For those of you who haven’t heard the news yet. . . .



Tim and I are having a baby!



This is truly an answered prayer.



So far no morning sickness. I just eat A LOT. And sleep quite a bit too.





Maybe there’s something in your life that you have been praying for for a long time. You might have been praying for weeks, months, or even years. What I have learned most in the past month is how important it is to not give up. God’s timing is perfect. There are so many good things that come from persistence in prayer.



It keeps us in relationship with God. This is the most important thing in our lives. If we are not in relationship with God, nothing else really goes well.
It clarifies our true needs and heartfelt desires. If you can pray just as fervently (or even more fervently) for something after time has passed, then it is a good indication that it comes from your heart. Particularly if you ask the Lord to change your heart if necessary along the way and the request still persists in spite of the transformation God begins in you.
It keeps us humble. Persisting in prayer reminds us that we cannot manipulate our circumstances, life, or even God. It truly helps us to know that it is God from whom all blessings flow.
It strengthens our faith. When we persist in praying, even when it looks like God is not answering, it gives us practice in walking by faith (that God hears, cares and answers no matter how we feel) and not by sight (the tangible results that we can see and feel).


I know the heartache that comes when a situation seems hopeless. Just know that you are not alone. There are other people who share your pain. However, there is also a God that walks beside you and knows your heart better than you do. And in your darkest moments it is God who most understands and is most able to quench the heartache. It is always safe to relinquish your heart to God’s hands.



I am so proud of each of you. Keep on keeping on. I know that you can do all things you need to do and are called to do, as you walk with Jesus.



Blessings,



Sami