Faith filled prayer

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​“So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24) NRSV

Sometimes answers to our prayers are immediate and complete. But other times we may have to wait. That which God seems to withhold at first, He grants later in response to our earnest and faith-filled prayers.

Delayed, but definitive answers come to those who persist in prayer and in Scripture, Jesus uses examples of others to drive home His point. Examples of persistent asking are found in stories about the woman from Canaan (Matthew 15:21-28), the widow before the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-8) and the friend who knocks at midnight (Luke 11:5-8).

Faith-filled prayers that are grounded on the Word of God and those that continue to pray earnest, humble prayers, end by gaining victory. Be encouraged. James reminds us that the prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (James 5:16). And our dear Lord Himself encourages us when He promised, “Will not God grant justice to His chosen ones who cry to Him day and night?” (Luke 18:7).

God’s timing is perfect. He will delay anything He sees necessary and then speedily bring the answer at just the right moment. God does both and our faith must grow big enough to understand this. Whether He answers our prayers immediately or not, we continue to persevere praying with faith in Him.

Let us grasp the answers to our prayers and the graces we seek to stand firm as if we have already received them, but wait with patience for the answers that are yet to come.

by Jennifer Woodley
South-East Queensland, Australia - info@grace-line.net​