“Never stop praying.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 NLT
By Paul saying this, he is not implying that we are to pray continuously throughout the day without stopping. That is impractical and not at all what he means. It is more of an attitude of prayer that we can have at all times. This is our way of acknowledging our complete and total reliance on our God. We must recognize that his presence is within us in the form of the Holy Spirit. Once we fully realize that he is with us always, wherever we go, then we will realize that what is meant here is short, spontaneous prayers frequently offered up throughout one’s day. This should become a natural thing to us, like breathing.
While there is no doubt that we become tired of praying for something or someone at times, we are to never stop praying for that thing or person. That is another meaning that can be derived from today’s verse. Our persistence in prayer is an expression of our faith in God and his ability and willingness to answer our prayers. Don’t allow your faith to wane if the wait for the answer is long, for delays only mean God is working out his will in the situation.
We must understand that God is always with us in the present and is always listening. His answers are either yes, no or not yet. We mustn’t allow our desires to override God’s plan for us for his will is inextricably tied to the forthcoming answer. You may be assured that an answer to your prayer(s) is forthcoming. Everything in this life takes time, even answers to prayer. Patience is required. We are in a hurry, God is not. He knows how long things will take yet doesn’t tell us because prayer is a lesson in faith, like so many other things in life. Trust God and do not fret or be concerned. This is where the peace that passes all understanding comes in. [Philippians 4:7] Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
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