Persevering in Prayer

Let us not lose heart in doing good,

for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

Galatians 6:9

But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good.

II Thessalonians 3:13

These verses came to mind this morning as I saw a lady, for which the salvation of her and her family, I have been praying for almost two years; and it brought to mind the other people and families whose salvation I regularly lift up to the Lord. I started thinking about the mystery of prayer, especially the prayer for salvation of those for whom we feel burdened to pray. Some are saved, others not yet; and yet in the midst of praying for the salvation of some, we see others for whom we have not prayed come to saving faith. A great mystery, yes, and sometimes a great frustration. We know that it is not up to the person who wills or who runs, but up to God to show mercy; and that the wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from  and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit. God saves whom He chooses, and chooses whom He saves. 

Additionally, we know that all things are from Him, through Him, and to Him; and surely prayer is one of the all things. Will those whom we have been touched with the burden to pray for ever be saved? If not, why pray, why the burden? But then, we don't know if and when they will be saved. But since all things are from Him, through Him, and to Him, we know that somehow there is a purpose and usefulness to our prayers, even if those whom we are burdened to pray for are never saved. 

These two verses are a great encouragement when we are faced with great frustration in continuing on with an activity that God has called us to. Prayer in general, and praying for the lost specifically, are certainly those types of activities. So let us be encouraged to keep engaging in doing good, for those whom we are burdened for their salvation. Let us not grow weary in doing good for them, in taking them before the throne of God; for in due time, His time, we will reap (accomplish His work) if we do not grow weary.