Persistence in Prayer Has Its Reward

“With one accord all these were persisting in prayer.”​—Acts 1:14

1. What does having persistence or perseverance in something mean?

“TO PERSIST” or “persevere” in something means to pursue a certain course steadily and constantly until the goal is attained. These verbs include the thought of overcoming difficulties and opposition before success is achieved.

2. For what reasons was it appropriate for Jesus’ disciples to be “persisting in prayer”?

² Appropriately, at Acts 1:14, concerning the little band of Jesus’ true followers, it says that “with one accord all these were persisting in prayer.” They knew that Jesus had risen from the dead and they had just witnessed his ascension heavenward, but there was much that they did not understand. The promised holy spirit with power had not yet come upon them. (Acts 1:8) They did not yet fully appreciate why God had permitted their beloved Leader to be impaled on that terrible torture stake. The men responsible for doing this were still in power and there was no sign of any change in their attitude. They had been persistent in their relentless opposition. So Jesus’ followers, conscious of their need, persisted in prayer to the One in whom they had faith.

3. (a) When were their prayers answered, and how did this affect their priorities? (b) What extensive witness was given in those early days?

³ Beginning with the day of Pentecost, their prayers of faith were surely answered beyond their anticipations. They began to appreciate Jesus’ final words to them before his ascension. Instead of their first priority centering around a date, as implied in their question “Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?” their attention was now focused on their assignment of being “witnesses of [Jesus] both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8) What a bold and thorough witness Peter gave on that day of Pentecost, including his declaration “This Jesus God resurrected, of which fact we are all witnesses”!​—Acts 2:32; see also Acts 2:40; 3:15; 4:33; 5:32.

4. How do Jesus’ followers today see the need to be persistent in prayer?

⁴ Similarly today, Jesus’ true followers need to be persistent in their prayers “to the one who can, according to his power which is operating in us, do more than superabundantly beyond all the things we ask or conceive.” (Eph. 3:20) Though greatly enlightened respecting Jehovah’s purpose and its outworking, there is still much of which they do not know the detail, as to both the exact timing of events yet future and just how the many scriptures will be fulfilled concerning the complete end of Satan’s system of things. These include prophetic references to Jehovah’s people, such as the one found at Isaiah 26:20: “Go, my people . . . Hide yourself for but a moment until the denunciation passes over.”

5. (a) What two vital things are required of Jehovah’s Witnesses? (b) God’s kingdom message has produced what results in the world, and how was this foretold?

⁵ Of more immediate importance, Jehovah’s servants realize that meanwhile there is a great work to be done and a stand to be maintained, as is seen in their God-given name, Jehovah’s Witnesses. (Isa. 43:10-12) This work and their stand require persistence or perseverance. The message of God’s kingdom calls for the destruction of the worldly nations and kingdoms. (Jer. 25:15-30) God’s kingdom “will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms.” That message is not popular with present-day rulers who display the spirit of nationalism. Their combined opposition is becoming increasingly manifest. They “have massed together as one against Jehovah and against his anointed one [the installed King, Christ Jesus].”​—Ps. 2:2-6; Dan. 2:44.

6. (a) What qualities are required today? (b) How should every situation be viewed, and how has our need been supplied regarding this?

⁶ For God’s servants today to say as did the apostles of the first century: “We must obey God as ruler rather than men,” takes much courage. (Acts 5:29) Such courage and boldness are not dependent on our own resources and temperament, about which few of us have anything to boast. The exercise of these qualities requires a clear understanding and discernment of God’s purpose, also of the righteous standards and principles set forth in God’s Word. Among mankind, never has there been such a wholesale abandonment to selfishness, violence, corruption and uncleanness of all sorts. (2 Tim. 3:1-5) There are many and various pressures to contend with in these “last days.” This means that we must learn how to view every situation and problem from God’s viewpoint. It is only by looking to him that we can get true enlightenment through his Word and with the aid of his spirit and organization. (Ps. 36:9) Hence, the need for persistence in prayer and the need to build a true and strong faith, a victorious faith. Knowing our needs, Jehovah, in his Word, has kindly given us much timely encouragement, counsel and warning on these vital matters. First, there is the question as to who may pray and under what terms or conditions, if any.

JEHOVAH​—THE “HEARER OF PRAYER”

7. (a) Who is the “Hearer of prayer,” and why was David often in need in this regard? (b) What fine guideline is provided for those feeling unworthy? (Ps. 103:8-14)

⁷ Jehovah inspired his servant David to write: “O Hearer of prayer, even to you people of all flesh will come.” (Ps. 65:2) David himself often experienced the need for persistence in prayer, as expressed in many of the psalms that he wrote. Sometimes the need was urgent because of the relentless pressure from his enemies, as is shown at Psalm 70:1-5. At other times the need arose on account of his own weakness and errors, some of which were serious. If you yourself happen to feel unworthy to approach God in prayer on this account, thinking that he will not hear you, we recommend that you read and reread Psalm 51:1-12. Those words recorded at Ps 51 verses 9 through 11 could well form the basis of your own prayer.

“Conceal your face from my sins, and wipe out even all my errors. Create in me even a pure heart, O God, and put within me a new spirit, a steadfast one. Do not throw me away from before your face; and your holy spirit O do not take away from me.”

8. In approaching Jehovah, with whom does the choice really rest, and under what conditions?

⁸ Does the expression concerning the coming of “people of all flesh” to the “Hearer of prayer” mean that anyone is free to do this at any time he may choose? No. It actually works out the opposite way. As stated later in that same psalm: “Happy is the one you [that is, Jehovah] choose and cause to approach, that he may reside in your courtyards.” (Ps. 65:4) Though the invitation is open to all, the approach must be made in all sincerity. Though your faith may not be strong to begin with, it must be true. “Jehovah is near . . . to all those who call upon him in trueness.”​—Ps. 145:18.

9. Why must our prayers to Jehovah always be in the name of Jesus?

⁹ Additionally, our prayers to Jehovah must always be in the name of Christ Jesus, the sole channel appointed by God. (John 14:13, 14) We gratefully recognize Christ’s redemptive work on behalf of all mankind, and that he now serves as God’s high priest, through whom we can “approach with freeness of speech to the throne of undeserved kindness, that we may obtain mercy and find undeserved kindness for help at the right time.”​—1 Tim. 2:4-6; Heb. 2:9; 4:14-16.

10. How does Psalm 15 provide further helpful guidance respecting this?

¹⁰ For further information as to the kind of person whom God chooses, we suggest that you read, at Psalm 15, the inspired answer to the question: “O Jehovah, who will be a guest in your tent? Who will reside in your holy mountain?” The principles outlined therein must be acknowledged as righteous by us; and we must aim for them, even though at times we may fall short in actual performance.

11. (a) The Holy Scriptures were written for whose benefit primarily? (b) What encouragement can be found in Solomon’s prayer at 1 Kings 8:41-43?

¹¹ Perhaps you say, and rightly so, that the Holy Scriptures, including those already mentioned, center around God’s people and apply to them, especially the Christian congregation that constitutes spiritual Israel, “the Israel of God.” (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11; Gal. 6:16) In comparison with such, you perhaps consider yourself an outsider or a foreigner, so to speak, because of your previous way of life and total lack of interest in religion. Many are in such a position today. Do not quickly give up, however. Keep in mind that among the many petitions that Solomon presented to Jehovah at the dedication of the temple, he prayed for “the foreigner, who is no part of your people Israel and who actually comes from a distant land by reason of your name.” He prayed that “you [Jehovah] must do according to all that for which the foreigner calls to you; in order that all the peoples of the earth may get to know your name so as to fear you the same as your people Israel do.”​—1 Ki. 8:41-43.

12, 13. (a) How was Isaiah inspired to write about “foreigners”? (b) For whose benefit and in what way can these expressions be applied?

¹² Additional insight and encouragement for these “foreigners” is given at Isaiah 56:6-8:

“And the foreigners that have joined themselves to Jehovah to minister to him and to love the name of Jehovah, in order to become servants to him, all those keeping the sabbath in order not to profane it and laying hold of my covenant, I will also bring them to my holy mountain and make them rejoice inside my house of prayer. Their whole burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be for acceptance upon my altar. For my own house will be called even a house of prayer for all the peoples.”

¹³ What an inviting description! These “foreigners” are not regimented, but gladly join themselves to Jehovah out of love for his name and all for which it stands. Their whole life (not just one day in seven) becomes one of ‘sabbath keeping,’ one being dedicated to Jehovah; thereby they enter into His rest, as Paul explains at Hebrews 4:1-10. The apostle Paul also shows how the ‘whole burnt offerings and sacrifices’ have a practical application for dedicated Christians, when he writes:

“Through him let us always offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips which make public declaration to his name. Moreover, do not forget the doing of good and the sharing of things with others, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”​—Heb. 13:15, 16.

14. What was the “house of prayer” in Isaiah’s day, and what did it symbolize?

¹⁴ In Isaiah’s day, Jehovah’s “house of prayer” was, of course, the temple that Solomon built. This temple was a symbol of God’s great spiritual temple. God’s personal presence is up in the heavenly Most Holy of this spiritual temple. In the Holy compartment of this temple the spirit-begotten followers of Jesus Christ yet on earth find themselves. They are also pictured as being in the earthly courtyard reserved for the priests in this spiritual temple.

15. (a) How is a “great crowd” identified at Revelation 7:9-17? (b) How does this apply to Jehovah’s Witnesses today?

¹⁵ Nicely corresponding with the foregoing, and after reading at Revelation 7:1-8 about the Christian congregation’s making up spiritual Israel, totaling 144,000, we next read of a “great crowd” who also enjoy God’s favor; and in proof of their dedication to him they are “rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple.” (Rev. 7:15) This beautiful vision presents the international “great crowd” as serving Jehovah in his temple, that is, in the earthly courtyards reserved for those who are not spiritual Israelites, as it were in the “courtyard of the Gentiles.” Today, the great majority of Jehovah’s Witnesses identify themselves as being of the “great crowd,” with hope of everlasting life in God’s kingdom on a paradise earth. Jesus spoke of these latter ones as his “other sheep, which are not of this fold.” As Jesus continued, all his true sheep today “become one flock, [under] one shepherd.”​—Luke 12:32; John 10:16.a

16. What rewarding prospects are set before those earnestly seeking Jehovah?

¹⁶ You are welcome to join in fellowship with this closely knit band of true worshipers of Jehovah. You will find this to be a most happy experience. It will prove to be of practical assistance to you and a great encouragement in your developing persistence in prayer in true faith. This yields results, for Jehovah “becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Heb. 11:6) This matter of persistence in prayer, linked with faith, is highlighted in a most interesting way in Luke’s Gospel.

17. How does Jacob’s experience with the angel provide a fine example of persistence?

¹⁷ At this point we wish to remind you of an extraordinary example of persistence and how it was richly rewarded. We refer to the time when Jacob found himself grappling all night with an angel who had materialized. Even though the socket of Jacob’s thigh joint was put out of place by the angel, Jacob would not let him go until, as he said: “You first bless me.” The angel then said something that would have lasting significance: “Your name will no longer be called Jacob but Israel, for you have contended with God and with men so that you at last prevailed.” He also finally blessed Jacob. Jacob surely went far beyond pursuing a certain course steadily and constantly. He literally had to grapple and keep at it in a crippled state until he got what he sought. He was wonderfully blessed, as he said: “I have seen God face to face and yet my soul was delivered.” What a fine example of persistence in prayer!​—Gen. 32:24-30.

[Footnotes]

Prayer in These “Last Days”

“Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication.”​—Luke 21:36.

1. (a) Where does Luke first make mention of prayer or “supplication”? (b) How did Jesus respond to the request: “Lord, teach us how to pray”?

WHILE prayer is mentioned early in Luke’s Gospel with reference to Zechariah’s “supplication” to God (at Lu chapter 1, verse 13), it is at Lu chapter 11 that Jesus discusses this subject at some length. To begin with, Jesus answers the request made by one of his disciples: “Lord, teach us how to pray, just as John also taught his disciples.” (Luke 11:1) Jesus replied:

“Whenever you pray, say, ‘Father, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Give us our bread for the day according to the day’s requirement. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone that is in debt to us; and do not bring us into temptation.”​—Luke 11:2-4.

2. (a) How is God’s name thus honored, and in harmony with what scriptures? (b) What contrasting situation exists in the world, and how will it be remedied?

² Similar to the scriptures at 1 Kings 8:41-43 and Isaiah 56:6-8, mentioned in the previous article, notice the priority given by Jesus to his Father’s name. Jehovah’s name is certainly not sanctified in the world of today. The spirit of nationalism, of putting self first and of self-indulgence, being content with a “form of godly devotion but proving false to its power,” and other suchlike conditions cause God’s name to be reproached and dishonored or completely ignored. (2 Tim. 3:5) So God must sanctify his own name in answer to this prayer. (Ezek. 36:23) The disgraceful state of affairs will be remedied when God’s kingdom, in the hands of Christ Jesus, goes into action against the nations and their rulers, as described so vividly at Psalm 2.

3. In this connection, what warning and promise does Peter give?

³ These things take place in Jehovah’s day, now so near, as Bible prophecy in course of fulfillment clearly shows. We therefore do well to pay heed to Peter’s inspired admonition and warning:

“Awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah, through which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved and the elements being intensely hot will melt! But there are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell. Hence, beloved ones, since you are awaiting these things, do your utmost to be found finally by him spotless and unblemished and in peace.”​—2 Pet. 3:12-14.

4. How are the first two petitions closely linked in the Lord’s Prayer, and how does this help us with reference to the other petitions?

⁴ When all these things are accomplished, God’s name will be completely vindicated and sanctified. That is why the two petitions at Luke 11:2 are closely linked and come first in the Lord’s Prayer. These are the really big events for our day and the near future. Keeping them close in mind will help in taking a more balanced view of our personal daily needs and problems next mentioned in that prayer. Instead of becoming self-centered, which is so easy, we will first ask ourselves: What attitude and course of action on my part will be in harmony with God’s will, as outlined in his Word, and, hence, will honor his name?

BOLD PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF

5. (a) What is the general rule in Jesus’ illustrations respecting the characters used? Cite an example. (b) At Luke 11:5-8, what characters are seen, and what part do they play?

⁵ Following the above, Luke next tells of an illustration given by Jesus, containing an unusual feature. Generally, when one or more characters are used in an illustration, each of such closely corresponds with those portrayed by such characters. If, for instance, the heavenly Father is being portrayed, as in the illustration of the prodigal son at Luke 15:11-32, then we have no difficulty in seeing how the father of that son, by what he said and did, fittingly portrayed the heavenly Father. That cannot be said, however, in the case of the following illustration of Jesus:

“Who of you will have a friend and will go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, loan me three loaves, because a friend of mine has just come to me on a journey and I have nothing to set before him’? And that one from inside says in reply, ‘Quit making me trouble. The door is already locked, and my young children are with me in bed; I cannot rise up and give you anything.’ I tell you, Although he will not rise up and give him anything because of being his friend, certainly because of his bold persistence he will get up and give him what things he needs.”​—Luke 11:5-8.

6. How did a certain character therein stand out in contrast to Jehovah, and what was Jesus thereby stressing?

⁶ Here we see that the one in a position to supply the supplicant’s needs at first definitely refused to take any action, saying: “Quit making me trouble.” He was most unwilling. Rather than showing himself to be like the heavenly Father, he stands out in sharp contrast. By doing so, the point of the illustration was made just that much more forceful. If that man with his family already tucked in bed with him had been willing to get up and give what was needed, there would have been no need for “bold persistence” on the part of the supplicant. That was what Jesus was stressing.

7, 8. In what way did Jesus’ further words confirm this, and how does this greatly encourage us?

⁷ This is clearly confirmed by Jesus’ next words: “Accordingly I say to you, Keep on asking, and it will be given you; keep on seeking, and you will find; keep on knocking, and it will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9) Then, still by way of contrast, he concludes: “Therefore, if you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!”​—Luke 11:13.

⁸ Just picture that man who, “because of his bold persistence,” got what he needed even at midnight! His persistence paid off. What an encouragement to put into practice Jesus’ own application of that illustration: ‘keep on asking​—seeking—​knocking.’ Do not give up in praying or weaken in faith because of persistent opposition to your work of Kingdom-preaching or disciple-making, or due to living in a divided household, or because of fighting some personal weakness that is more deep-rooted than you imagined.

9. What examples of persistence in prayer and action are noted at Acts 4:24-30 and Acts 5:41, 42?

⁹ A fine example of such persistence in prayer, backed by appropriate action, is seen in the early days of the Christian congregation. When Peter and John reported the opposition that they had experienced before the Sanhedrin, note the united prayer that was expressed at Acts 4:24-30, especially the words at Ac 4 verse 29: “And now, Jehovah, give attention to their threats, and grant your slaves to keep speaking your word with all boldness.” Not long after, when all the apostles had been flogged following a further session before the Sanhedrin, the record, at Acts 5:41, 42, says: “These, therefore, went their way from before the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of his name. And every day in the temple and from house to house they continued without letup teaching and declaring the good news about the Christ, Jesus.” None of those apostles experienced more persistent opposition than did the apostle Paul, and he went on record as saying: “For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.”​—Phil. 4:13.

‘THE NEED ALWAYS TO PRAY AND NOT TO GIVE UP’

10. Preceding another illustration highlighting prayer, what does Luke report Jesus had been saying, pointing to what double fulfillment?

¹⁰ When near the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus gave an even more striking example of using a contrast in an illustration in order to emphasize, as Luke notes: “Then he [Jesus] went on to tell them an illustration with regard to the need for them always to pray and not to give up.” (Luke 18:1) First, however, we will consider what led up to the giving of this illustration. (Interestingly, Luke often mentions the reason why certain illustrations were given, as can be noted at Luke 18:9 and Lu 19:11.) Looking back at Luke 17:22-37, we note that Luke was reporting what Jesus had said concerning the conditions that would prevail when he would be “rejected by this generation.” (Luke 17:25) While these words of Jesus, corresponding in part to Matthew chapter 24, had a fulfillment in his day, leading up to the end of that Jewish system of things, they have a greater fulfillment in this our day, the “time of the end” for the present system of things.​—Dan. 12:4.

11. (a) How do conditions today parallel the days of both Noah and Lot? (b) What did Jesus particularly note, and does this find a parallel today?

¹¹ And what are the prevailing conditions among the people of this generation today? Yes, daily it is becoming more like the days of Noah when “God saw the earth and, look! it was ruined, because all flesh had ruined its way on the earth” and the earth was “full of violence.” (Gen. 6:12, 13) Yet Jesus made no reference to those things, but, rather, mentioned something else of still greater significance. What was that? The people then were fully occupied and quite content with the daily routine of such things as ‘eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage.’ It was “likewise . . . in the days of Lot” when additional things are listed such as buying, selling, planting and building. (Luke 17:26-29) Instead of being concerned and alarmed over the prevailing wickedness and violence, their attitude was marked by apathy and indifference. As for the great witness given by Noah, both in word and in deed in the building of the ark, “they [the people] took no note.” (Matt. 24:39; 2 Pet. 2:5) Surely the same can be said of the attitude of people in general today, especially as regards the intensive worldwide witness of God’s kingdom, as foretold at Matthew 24:14. The majority are simply not interested; they have too much else to occupy their time and attention. Note, too, the point made by Jesus respecting both the above-mentioned periods, that the execution of final judgment came with unexpected suddenness “and destroyed them all.”​—Luke 17:27, 29.

12. Based on Luke 17:31-37, what can we learn and put into practice?

¹² We trust that you are among the comparatively few who are concerned about the situation in the world today and are willing to pay attention to what God’s Word has to say about these things. If, as indicated at Luke 17:31-37, you see the need to quit being a part of or a supporter of the present system of things and you no longer seek to ‘keep your soul (life) safe’ just for yourself, then lose no time. Take your stand on the side of Jehovah and his kingdom. Commit your life’s prospects, both present and future, in dedication to Jehovah to do his will. Do not look back longingly on what you have left behind. “Remember the wife of Lot.” (Luke 17:32) Rather, identify yourself with those who, as Jesus said, “are no part of the world, just as I am no part of the world.”​—John 17:14-17.

13. What are the main points in the illustration at Luke 18:2-5?

¹³ Coming now to the illustration at Luke 18:2-5, there is again a supplicant, this time a widow, and also the man in a position to supply her needs, pictured by a “judge that had no fear of God and had no respect for man.” He finally and begrudgingly saw that she got justice, as he said, only “because of this widow’s continually making me trouble.” There was no doubt about her persistence, illustrating the ‘need for us always to pray and not to give up.’

14. (a) In contrast to the “unrighteous” judge, what did Jesus say God will do? (b) What can we learn from this as to the time feature?

¹⁴ That judge is similar to the man at Luke 11:7, for here we again see a complete contrast with what God is really like. Notice, too, Jesus’ further comments as to what God will do, contrasting him with that “unrighteous” Judge. God will “cause justice to be done for his chosen ones . . . even though he is long-suffering toward them.” He will do this “speedily.” (Luke 18:6-8) We can learn much from these comments. This is why we must try to view all things from God’s viewpoint, whether in some personal matter or in the outworking of his purpose. As Peter explained: “Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you [God’s people] because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.” And as the prophet reported Jehovah’s words regarding the fulfillment of the vision: “Even if it should delay, keep in expectation of it; for it will without fail come true. It will not be late.”​—2 Pet. 3:9; Hab. 2:3; see also Revelation 6:10, 11.

15. How does this apply to personal problems, and what must be avoided?

¹⁵ In personal problems, we can be assured that any seeming delay in the answer to our petitions is not due to inability or unwillingness on God’s part. If, like the widow, we are suffering injustice or persecution, how do we manifest faith that justice will be done? We must not only keep on praying, but also maintain a faithful course of action. If we compromise in order to avoid persecution, then, of course, there would be no need to keep on praying. This would not only indicate a lack of faith, but would also result in our losing the evidence of being one of God’s Christian servants.​—2 Cor. 11:23-27; 2 Tim. 3:12.

16. How can the question at Luke 18:8 be taken as a personal challenge with profit to ourselves?

¹⁶ It might seem strange that Jesus should conclude his comments with the question: “Nevertheless, when the Son of man arrives, will he really find the faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8) He left it an open question. While this would seem to imply that the faith would not be plentiful at that time, we cannot conclude that no true faith at all would be found anywhere on earth. Rather, we can take it as a personal challenge. We should not take ourselves individually for granted, however long we have been Jehovah’s dedicated servants. (1 Cor. 10:12, 13) Not only must we heed the admonition at Luke 11:9 to ‘keep on asking​—seeking—​knocking,’ but also, as Jesus stressed the need for this day, we must “keep looking, keep awake . . . keep on the watch.” This calls for all-around persistence, withstanding the pressures of apathy and opposition from without, also overcoming weaknesses from within.​—Mark 13:32-37; 14:38.

17. Above all, along what lines should we pray, following whose example?

¹⁷ Keep praying in faith that you may prove faithful and not shrink back. (Heb. 10:39) In severe trial, keep praying, as Jesus did in his hour of greatest need, that above all else God’s will should take place. (Matt. 26:38-44) God is well pleased with such prayers. He allows us as petitioners to demonstrate our depth of concern, intensity of desire and genuineness of motive. He, though long-suffering, will execute justice speedily when the time is ripe.​—Ps. 55:16, 17; Rom. 1:9-12.

‘KEEP AWAKE, ALL THE TIME MAKING SUPPLICATION’

18. (a) What pointed warning and exhortation did Jesus give at the conclusion of his prophecy? (b) In what way can we escape all that is “destined to occur”?

¹⁸ In line with the foregoing, Luke’s Gospel records how Jesus, concluding his prophecy for both his day and ours, warned of overindulgence and our hearts becoming “weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day [of final judgment] be instantly upon [us] as a snare.” He then pointedly said: “Keep awake, then, all the time making supplication [to what end?] that you may succeed in escaping all these things that are destined to occur, and in standing before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:34-36) This does not mean that we are taken away from the scene of action, but, rather, that we must avoid being ‘caught on the wrong foot,’ as in a snare, or being found in the wrong camp. Instead, we must earnestly pray at all times and endeavor to act in harmony with our prayers that we may be found having a “standing [of approval] before the Son of man.”

19. What questions can we profitably ask ourselves respecting prayer, and how is Nehemiah’s example a help to us?

¹⁹ In view of all these many reminders as to persistence and never giving up, how often do you pray? Is it only at stated times as at meals or at meetings? Are your prayers just from the mind and expressed on the lips, or do you keep “making supplication” and earnest entreaty from the heart, sometimes perhaps with “groanings unuttered”? (Rom. 8:26) Whatever the need, you can do as Nehemiah did unobserved when before the king: “At once I prayed to the God of the heavens.” (Neh. 2:4) His prayer of faith was answered. Remember, too, that though you can be helped by the prayers of others, no one can really substitute for you in prayer.

Maintaining a Precious Relationship

“Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.”​—James 4:8

1, 2. (a) In what way is Jehovah a generous giver? (b) He who doubts is in what danger, and how can this be avoided? (c) Can faith grow, and is it more than a mental process?

JEHOVAH is a generous giver. We have already learned from Luke’s account that Jehovah answers the petitions of those who persist in prayer and who keep watching. And other Bible writers also were inspired to give practical counsel on the closely related subjects of prayer and faith.

² James, for example, early in his letter, reminds us that we should “keep on asking God” for wisdom in meeting and enduring various trials. He admonishes and warns: “But let him keep on asking in faith, not doubting at all.” He who keeps doubting is an “indecisive [Greek, “two-souled”] man” and receives nothing from Jehovah. Rather, we want our faith to have the quality that James mentions: “This tested quality of your faith works out endurance.” (Jas. 1:3-8)a Though, to begin with, our faith may not be as great as was Abraham’s, it can grow and must always ring true, not be half-and-half. Let it be said of us as Paul wrote: “Your faith is growing exceedingly and the love of each and all of you is increasing one toward the other.” True faith is not just a mental process, but as Paul also wrote: “Exercise faith in your heart.” We must have good motivation, resulting in good works.​—Rom. 4:20; 10:9, 10; 2 Thess. 1:3.

3. By contrasts, what truths are drawn to our attention at James 4:7, 8?

³ In confirmation of the foregoing, James later wrote: “Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you indecisive ones.” Leading up to this, James made certain contrasts, as Jesus did, in order to drive home truths that needed to be emphasized: “Subject yourselves, therefore, to God; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.”​—Jas. 4:7, 8.

4. (a) To draw close to someone calls for what kind of action, prompted by what? (b) Does God extend more than just a welcome to such, and what provisions are already made for the benefit of all?

⁴ What an encouragement to be decisive in a right way and, finally, what a heartwarming appeal! One might be decisive and persistent out of a sense of duty, but to draw close to someone calls for something much deeper. It must come from the heart, prompting one to put oneself out and be ready to make sacrifices in order to gain and enjoy the desired close personal relationship. Notice that James does not say that if we draw close to God, then he, so to speak, is just sitting there waiting to welcome us. Rather, if we take a definite personal course of action in drawing close to God, then he too will take a corresponding action on his part. How does he do this? Well, he has already made certain fine provisions including his Word and the gift of his Son as our Redeemer, so that it is possible for imperfect, sinful humans to draw close to him. These provisions are open to all who wish to take advantage of them with a sincere and true motive.

5. How are God’s dedicated servants often used in helping those wishing to “draw close to God”?

⁵ Does Jehovah, however, do anything of a more direct personal nature? In so many instances, what is it that is the one thing that touches and draws out the heart of the truth seeker? More than a knowledge of the truth, is it not additionally the genuine and warm personal interest shown by the one who is being used as God’s minister? (1 Cor. 3:5) When the truth seeker attends his first meeting with Jehovah’s Witnesses, he may not understand too much of what is said, but he is again deeply impressed with the sincere friendly atmosphere manifest by all, besides the personal attention and welcome extended to him. In this way he feels that, in response to his own efforts in seeking after truth and the Giver of the truth, now God is drawing close to him. As he progresses, he experiences other evidences of God’s direction and blessing, for He gives ‘generously and without reproaching.’​—Jas. 1:5.

6. How only is this made possible, and what must be kept in mind?

⁶ As the seeker after truth is guided step by step in the way of righteousness, he comes to appreciate what a privilege it is to be used by Jehovah as one of his representatives in helping yet others. This is made possible because of the outpouring of his spirit in our hearts, so that we may show forth the fruitage of that spirit and exemplify true Godlike love.​—Gal. 5:22, 23; 1 John 4:11.

BE ALERT, BE DECISIVE

7. The general tone of James’ letter indicates what?

⁷ James was writing to dedicated Christians who had taken the steps of repentance and conversion. They had turned around from their previous sinful course, and had now dedicated themselves unreservedly to Jehovah to do his will henceforth. As the general tone of James’ letter indicates, many were not living up to the terms of their dedication. They overlooked the need to keep that relationship with Jehovah in a healthy state.

8. (a) Why cannot relationships be taken for granted? (b) With regard to what was James anxious to help those slipping back?

⁸ Relationships rarely, if ever, remain stationary. They cannot be taken for granted. They either progress, even though slowly and, like a tree, take deeper root, or they deteriorate and commence to wither. Both fruitage and foliage suffer as a result. (Ps. 1:1-3) That is what happened to the nation of fleshly Israel. Before it was too late, James was anxious to recover those spiritual Israelites who were similarly slipping back. Hence, he put the position very plainly before them, contrasting the true with the false as to the different kinds of wisdom, also of friendship, as he explained at James 3:13-18 and James 4:1-6. Then follows the appeal as above-mentioned at James 4:7, 8. It is similar to the way that Jehovah appealed to fleshly Israel, as we read at Isaiah 55:6, 7 and Malachi 3:6, 7.

9. (a) What is one method of attack used by the Devil, and how does it apply in modern times? (b) How did Peter give encouraging counsel in this regard?

⁹ To some extent, does the same situation obtain today? The foretold “critical times hard to deal with” are certainly here with increasing pressures and dangers of all sorts crowding in on people everywhere, especially on true Christians who are on the ‘cramped road leading off into life.’ (Matt. 7:14; 2 Tim. 3:1-5) The Devil has two main methods of attack. At times, as Peter wrote, he acts “like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone” after frightening us off that road. (1 Pet. 5:8) He brings about threatening situations, either on a national scale or on a more personal level, with the object of forcing us to make some compromise, if not completely to abandon our stand involving Christian conscience and Bible principles. Our daily living, even life itself, can be at stake over difficult questions of employment or neutrality. As already mentioned, this is where the need arises to keep praying for wisdom to discern and the strength to apply these Bible principles. That is why Peter went on to urge: “But take your stand against him [the Devil], solid in the faith . . . After you have suffered a little while, the God of all undeserved kindness . . . will himself finish your training, he will make you firm, he will make you strong.”​—1 Pet. 5:9, 10.

10, 11. (a) What other method is used by Satan, and how is it exemplified today, leading to what danger? (b) So how should we be alert and decisive?

¹⁰ The Devil’s other method of attack is more subtle. Satan also “keeps transforming himself into an angel of light.” He acts like a serpent, not to frighten, but to beguile and seduce, as “the serpent seduced Eve by its cunning.” (2 Cor. 11:3, 14) As an evidence of this tactic, there is one thing that Satan knows that he does not want you to know, and that is that his time is short. As a result of the war in heaven, following the birth of the Messianic kingdom in 1914, C.E., he, the great dragon, “was hurled down to the earth, . . . having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” (Rev. 12:1-12) If he can persuade especially those “who observe the commandments of God and have the work of bearing witness to Jesus” that the “time of the end” is not so short after all, then he has won half the battle. (Rev. 12:17) Many would lose the sense of urgency and fail to keep wide awake. We could easily become fully occupied with the normal pursuits of daily life. Surely in this we must learn how to look at things from Jehovah’s viewpoint and try to appreciate how he counts time, keeping in mind Peter’s words: “But the end of all things has drawn close. Be sound in mind, therefore, and be vigilant with a view to prayers.”​—1 Pet. 4:7; 2 Pet. 3:8, 9.

¹¹ Both Bible writers, James and Peter, said much that helps and encourages us to be alert and decisive in a right way, with a good heart and paying close attention to prayers and to faith.

PRAY FOR THOSE IN NEED

12. (a) How does James finally develop the subject of prayer? (b) In what way are both overseers and those in need aided?

¹² At the conclusion of his letter, James develops the subject of prayer in connection with faith still further and from a different angle. Whatever the situation, whether “suffering evil” or “in good spirits,” we should come to God in prayer or in praise. He then talks about praying for those in need. The one who is sick, evidently suffering spiritually and being affected mentally and emotionally, is told to “call the older men of the congregation to him, and let them pray over him.” This in itself is an indication of faith on his part and that he knows where to go for help. A person does not call in a doctor unless he has a degree of faith in that doctor. Now observe the fine results for taking such a course: “And the prayer of faith will make the indisposed one well, and Jehovah will raise him up. Also, if he has committed sins, it will be forgiven him.” (Jas. 5:13-15) This surely gives a good lead and direction both to those in need and to the overseers who should be ready and willing to be instrumental in getting those needs supplied.

13. How does James use Elijah as a striking example in this regard?

¹³ James enlarges on this and, with the overseers and other mature brothers in mind, says that “a righteous man’s supplication, when it is at work, has much force.” Supporting this, he cites the remarkable instance of the prayers of Elijah being answered, first “for it not to rain,” and which period lasted for three years and six months, and then for a resumption of rainfall. And Elijah was not a superman. He “was a man with feelings like ours.”​—Jas. 5:16-18.

14. As a final word, how does James give further encouragement?

¹⁴ In conclusion, and giving further encouragement to be alert to aid, if possible, even those who are being “misled from the truth,” he says that whoever “turns a sinner back from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.” (Jas. 5:19, 20) What a comforting conclusion! How like Jehovah’s own description of himself​—“a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth, . . . pardoning error and transgression and sin.”​—Ex. 34:6, 7.

15. Similarly, what two ways does Jude mention for helping those in need?

¹⁵ Interestingly, Jude ends his letter in a similar vein and talks about “building up yourselves on your most holy faith, and praying with holy spirit.” He too stresses the need to be alert to help those in need in a kindly yet urgent way: “Continue showing mercy to some that have doubts; save them by snatching them out of the fire. But continue showing mercy to others, doing so with fear, while you hate even the inner garment that has been stained by the flesh.” (Jude 20-23) So here again is the exhortation to those who are mature. If you know of some who have doubts or who have stumbled into uncleanness, do not quickly cold-shoulder them, but snatch them from the fire, if possible, taking care to avoid getting burned yourself or in any way contaminated.

“LOOK INTENTLY . . . CONSIDER CLOSELY”

16, 17. In the book of Hebrews, on what basis does Paul make many comparisons, leading to what conclusions?

¹⁶ The apostle Paul was used as the writer for most of the letters in the Christian Greek Scriptures. His letter to the Hebrew Christians gives much practical help and guidance in building up a true and strong faith, leading to a close relationship with Jehovah and Christ Jesus.

¹⁷ Understandably, in the above letter Paul makes many comparisons between the Jews making up fleshly Israel and those Jews who became the first members of the Christian congregation making up spiritual Israel, and to which Gentiles were added later. Based on these comparisons, Paul shows how the Hebrew Christians enjoyed many advantages over those of fleshly Israel, but this also brought greater responsibility. All true Christians today, whatever their background, can likewise apply these same things to themselves and be benefited thereby.

18. What warning about not begging off is repeated in this letter, and on what is it based in Israel’s history?

¹⁸ Paul earlier on makes the point that if the word spoken through angels when the Law was given to Israel had to be treated with the greatest respect, then “how shall we escape if we have neglected a salvation of such greatness in that it began to be spoken through our Lord” Jesus? (Heb. 2:1-3; Gal. 3:19) A similar warning is sounded toward the close of the letter. After telling what happened at Mount Sinai, Paul writes: “For if they did not escape who begged off from him who was giving divine warning upon earth, much more shall we not [escape] if we turn away from him who speaks from the heavens.”​—Heb. 12:25.

19. Hence, what pointed and helpful comments are made at Hebrews 3:12-15; 12:25-29?

¹⁹ This is where our faith must ring true in order to have the required tested quality. The heart is involved. After quoting God’s comment on Israel that “they always go astray in their hearts,” Paul makes the strong warning for our benefit: “Beware, brothers, for fear there should ever develop in any one of you a wicked heart lacking faith by drawing away from the living God.” We cannot stand still. If we do not “draw close to God” in evergrowing faith as we appreciate him more fully, then there is the danger that we will “become hardened by the deceptive power of sin,” and commence drawing away, not realizing what is happening. We should help one another in this respect and “keep on exhorting one another each day.” We will win “only if we make fast our hold on the confidence we had at the beginning firm to the end.” This firm confidence, this unshakable faith, must be maintained in order for us to inherit the “kingdom that cannot be shaken” and its blessings.​—Heb. 3:10-14; 12:28.

20. Besides stressing faith, how does Paul, in this letter, encourage us with regard to prayer?

²⁰ Paul also encourages us with regard to prayer, and to “look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. . . . Indeed, consider closely the one who has endured such contrary talk by sinners against their own interests, that you may not get tired and give out in your souls.” Because of all he went through he can sympathize with our weaknesses, though without sin himself, and through him we can have access to the “throne of undeserved kindness” and find help at the right time.​—Heb. 4:15, 16; 12:2, 3.

21. Where and how does Paul closely connect prayer with the “suit of armor” supplied by God, leading to what conclusion?

²¹ Finally, as Paul wrote to the Ephesians, keep in mind that “prayer on every occasion in spirit” is closely tied in with putting on the “complete suit of armor from God.” And, like Paul, we should pray for ourselves and others that we may be given “ability to speak . . . to make known the sacred secret of the good news, . . . with boldness.”​—Eph. 6:10-20.

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