When Jesus described the events preceding the end of the age, His language likely invoked fear in the disciples (Luke 17:20-37). But then He spoke a parable designed to encourage the disciples to pray always and not give up (Luke 18:1-8). He concluded the parable by exhorting them to be faithful (to pray) as they await the Son of Man’s coming.

We often pray when we face difficulty, whether on a universal or personal scale. That was the situation faced by a first-century priest in Jerusalem, Zacharias, and his wife, Elizabeth (Luke 1:5-23). They were advanced in years and had prayed for a long time for a child. An angel of the Lord appeared to Zacharias and announced that their prayers would be answered. They would have a son, to be named John, who would be the forerunner of the Messiah. God answered their prayers in His own time and for His own purpose. It was good that Zacharias and Elizabeth did not give up praying.

If you are asking God for something, do not lose heart. God has heard your prayer and will answer in His time.

Mature faith does not live by answers to prayer, but by prayer.
R. E. O. White