Why Are My Prayers Not Answered?Sýnishorn

Day 7: KEEP KNOCKING, KEEP ASKING

Persistent Prayer for a Prodigal Son

Monica, the mother of St. Augustine, prayed for years for her rebellious son to turn to Christ. Augustine lived in sin and rejected God, but Monica never stopped praying. After nearly 17 years of intercession, Augustine had a radical encounter with God and became one of the greatest theologians in history. If Monica had given up, history might have been different. Never stop praying — God is always at work, even when answers seem delayed.

Reflection:

• In the Scripture reading of today Jesus encourages persistent prayer. The persistent prayers of a mother are especially powerful and carry great weight in the heart of our heavenly Father.

• When we start praying about a matter, initially all we want is an answer. But as the answer is delayed, we learn to grow and stand in faith for what we believe but do not yet see. As the answer may be delayed even for decades, our relationship with God and experiencing His unfailing love and character in our own lives becomes the very thing that keeps us praying. In the end, we grow in the waiting.

• Not all delays mean “no”—sometimes they build faith. Do you sometimes feel like giving up praying for something? Be encouraged today – take up the prayer burden the Lord puts on your heart, and remember that Jesus is always interceding for and with us. (Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34).

Prayer: Father, forgive me for thinking that You have forsaken me when answers to prayer are delayed. Give me the perseverance to keep praying and seeking You, whether or not I see any changes. Strengthen me in my walk with You so that my faith may glorify You.