Persistent Faith

“In the days of His humanity, He offered up both prayers and pleas with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His devout behavior.”—Hebrews 5:7 NASB

In 1773 British explorer James Cook and his ship Resolution sailed south, hoping to find land and possibly a new continent. Then, he encountered an immense ice field.

Suddenly, Cook felt defeated. An opening was possible. He could have pushed east or west. But Cook had had enough. He concluded, “Whoever has resolution and perseverance to clear up this point by proceeding farther than I have done, I shall not envy him the honor of the discovery.”

Almost 70 years later, an American expedition led by James Clark Ross faced similar obstacles but did not let circumstances block their progress. As a result, they were rewarded with a breakthrough discovery of what we know as Antarctica.

Many people stop when they encounter obstacles, feeling defeated or discouraged. But the Bible teaches the importance of faith and persistence—always trusting God, not being timid, and remembering we always can call on Him and draw on His strength.

The Bible reminds us that Jesus Himself called on the Father. He prayed and offered up supplications “with loud crying and tears.” He prayed often and left us an example of persistence. He showed that we must not allow circumstances to defeat us.

What problems are you facing? Have you given up hope? Do you believe God can give you victory? Cry out to Him. Follow the example of Jesus. Pray until you get the answer. Be persistent! Remember, God answers prayer!

Reflection Question: For what have you been praying persistently for a long time?