Jesus taught us by example how important prayer is. Jesus seems to be constant in prayer. He prayed alone (Mt 14:23; Mk 1:35; Lk 9:18; 22:39-41). He prayed in public (Jn 11:41-42; 12:27-30). He prayed before meals (Mt 26:26; Mk 8:6; Lk 24:30; Jn 6:11). He prayed before making decisions (Lk 6:12-13), before healing (Mk 7:34-35), after healing (Lk 5:16). He prayed to do His Father’ will (Mt 21:22).
Jesus also taught how important prayer is for people (Mt 21:22; Mk 11:24-26; Mt 7:7-11; Lk 11:9-13; Jn 14:13-14; Jn 15:7,16; Jn 16:23-24; Mt 5:44; Lk 6:27-28; Mt 6:5-15. He gave us an example of things to pray for Lk 11:2-4; Mt 18:19-20).
It is interesting that in His parables He spoke of a persistent widow (Lk 18:1-8), who actually pestered an unkind judge regarding an injustice done against her. That unjust judge was moved by the widow’s persistence. Jesus reminds us that we have a just and kind Heavenly Father who wants to grant us our needs. Our prayers should be often and specific. God wants to help us to be successful in our journey through life.
Jesus taught on another occasion about a man who was persistent and ardent in his requests to a friend a midnight (Lk 11:5-13). Jesus was illustrating the need for persistence in our communication with God.
How persistent are we in our prayers? Have we lost heart and stopped praying like we should with fervor and faith? Take a moment and think of all the trials we will face from beginning of day to bedtime. We will face the devil and his dastardly ways over and over. We need to stay close to the Father for strength and comfort. Think of how many blessings you will be receiving through out the day, shouldn’t we be on our knees in gratitude for each one? Think of the many opportunities that God will send our way so we may serve Him. Shouldn’t we ask His help to see them and meet them faithfully? Think of how many people are suffering, health, injustice, hatred, strife, hurts and burdens, we must take them before the Father as well.
Worship Thoughts 