WHEN PRAYER DOESN'T SEEM PRODUCTIVE

When trials come and God seems far away, He is really with us - beside us and inside us - by His Spirit. He is always our faithful friend. What some Bible characters learned about God years ago are lessons we can still learn today.

When you don't know how to pray take the advice of King Jehoshaphat. He heard that a vast army was coming against him so he proclaimed a fast and called the people together for prayer. His prayer was simple: "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." (2 Chronicles 20:12) God honors prayers of helplessness when we go to Him with expectation.

When you think all hope is gone follow Jeremiah's lead. He didn't attempt to hide his feelings of anger and despair from God. He spent his time recalling God's faithfulness. He realized that God's love is unfailing. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

When your soul refuses to be comforted learn from David. In his distress he sought the Lord but found no immediate comfort. The lack was not on God's part, of course. It was David's own feeling of despair that kept him from being aware of God's presence or His answer. God has His hand upon our lives and is preparing us for something in the future. He says, "Don't give up. Trust me. Victory is closer than you think." (Psalm 77)

When your Bible reading seems empty rely on Paul. Use his prayers, and other Scriptures, as your own. Try praying Ephesians 3:16-19.

When you feel worthless remember Queen Esther. She remained available for God's purposes in a seemingly unrelated place and position. (Book of Esther) God has ordained your birth for a purpose. Be available to Him and His timing.

When you're searching for guidance look to Joseph. Many years after his unfortunate sale into slavery, Joseph realized that God had a plan that eventually would enable him to save his family and thousands of others from starvation. What had appeared to be merely circumstances in Joseph's life were actually the fine details of God's elaborate plan. (Genesis 45:8)

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