The Power of Persistent Prayers

Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, your faith is great; it shall be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed at once. Matthew 15:28

There is much I still don’t understand about prayer. But what I am learning is precious. It is meant to be a dialogue between my Father and me… not a one sided conversation where I do all the talking. The answers to my prayers are determined by my faith as well as by God’s sovereignty and wisdom. But most recently I am learning that prayer really can stir the heart of God and bring Him to the point of action. Many times God will not move until someone prays.

This was the case with a woman who spoke to Jesus (Matthew 15:21-28). She was not a Jew. She came to Him on behalf of her daughter who was demon possessed. She wanted healing for her daughter and her dialogue with Jesus is fascinating. This is a persistent woman. She presses past Jesus’ silence and first spoken words. She reminds me that many times what appears to be the final answer is really an invitation to keep asking. If she had walked away after the first exchange or even the second exchange her daughter would have remained in her possessed state. But because of her determination she touched the heart of God and Jesus gave her what she desired. Her daughter was healed.

This woman had a view of prayer that I want to see in my own life. God is showing me that often times my view of Him can hinder me from having a powerful and effective prayer life. Do I see Him as a God of love who desires to be extravagant with me or do I see Him as stingy and cold? Do I know in my head that all things are possible and yet resign myself to the feelings that He just doesn’t want to act on my behalf? Am I more inclined to pray safe prayers that I know He’ll say yes to or will I dare to risk and ask Him to do the impossible? Am I expecting to hear “no” more often than “yes?” Have I even begun to take Him up on His invitation to approach Him at any time for any reason?

Persistent and passionate in prayer? May God not only show me my true view of prayer but may He radically transform my personal prayer life.

Father, I have so much to learn when it comes to prayer. May it not be so complicated I grow discouraged and may it not be so hit and miss that I see little results. Help me to come to You with boldness, sincerity, and trust. Teach me! Amen.