Are there things you have prayed about for a long time and they’re worse now than when you started praying? That has happened in my life. How could this possibly be? If I talk to God about something, I don’t expect things to get worse! I expect things to get better. How can God be working when things look so bad?
Here are some ways I deal with this conundrum.
TRUST
First of all, I establish in my mind that God is sovereign. He knows infinitely more than me, and He loves those for whom I pray much more than I do. God knows what they need better than I do. God is God. He does not guess or experiment- He knows. To see change in another person we are praying for, we must be convinced beyond any doubt that God knows what is needed. We must also be convinced that God has the good of the individual on his agenda. Trust God.
INSIGHT
Secondly, it is quite possible that our prayers are influenced not by our love for the person, but by our own perceptions. For example, we can only pray based upon what we know or see, unless God gives us supernatural insight. What if our perceptions are wrong? We do not know the person’s heart, thoughts, attitudes, or true values. They may even have a deceitful heart. We must pray with faith that God is going to bring about good no matter what we see. When things appear to get worse for a time, ask the Holy Spirit for insight.
TIME
Thirdly, it often takes time. Why should God force someone to change because we want them to change? God respects our will. He does not want anyone to perish, be lost, or suffer, but he allows each one to make decisions. He is able and willing to touch hearts and set about circumstances to get our attention, but we still must make a decision. God is working on those we pray for but he works out of love and draws them rather than forces them. It may take time. During that time God may speak to them through trouble and suffering.
We must never stop praying. We must never lose hope no matter what things look like. Confess the promises of God over those for whom we are interceding. God always answers prayer.
MEDITATE
Are you still praying for others even if you’re not seeing the fruit of your prayers yet? Are you still hopeful in the waiting? Are you asking Holy Spirit for insight? Who else do you need to keep praying for?
STUDY
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Reading Plan: Leviticus 2-8
PRAY
Heavenly Father, help me to not lose hope for what I am praying for. I choose to persevere in praying for my loved ones, for my circumstances, and for others. Give me insight from your Holy Spirit how to pray effectively. I know that my prayers will be answered.
LIVE
Don’t stop praying! Continue to pray for people who need healing, salvation, or rescue. Have faith that God hears you. God always answers prayer. #Prayer #Hope #Faith
