Psalm of the Day: Psalm 142:1-7
Wisdom of the Day: Proverbs 13:14-25
Scripture Reading: Luke 11:5-13
In these verses, our Lord Jesus Christ instructs us about prayer. The subject is one which can never be too strongly pressed on our attention. Prayer lies at the very root of our practical Christianity. It is part of the daily business of our Christian life. We have reason to thank God, that upon no point has our Lord Jesus Christ spoken so fully and frequently, as upon prayer.
We must learn the importance of perseverance in prayer. This lesson is conveyed to us in the simple parable, commonly called the "Friend at Midnight." We are there reminded what man can obtain from man, by the force of importunity. As selfish as we naturally are, we are capable of being roused to exertion, by continual asking. The application of the parable is clear and plain. If importunity succeeds so well, between man and man, then how much more may we expect it to obtain mercies, when used in prayer to God.
The lesson is one which we shall do well to remember. It is far more easy to begin a habit of prayer, than to keep it up. Myriads of professing Christians are regularly taught to pray when they are young, and then gradually leave off the practice as they grow up.
The secret thought comes stealing over men's minds, that "it is no use to pray." They see no visible benefit from it. They persuade themselves that they get on just as well without prayer. Laziness and unbelief prevail over their hearts. Let us resist this feeling. Let us resolve by God's grace, that however poor and feeble our prayers may seem to be, we will pray on.
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to be fervent in prayer.
Action Plan: Memorize and practice 1 Thessalonians 5:17
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
