Many people have shared this question with me over the years, often with a quiet ache beneath it. We pray faithfully, sometimes for a long time, and yet nothing seems to change. In those moments, prayer can feel heavy, even discouraging. But this is precisely where perseverance becomes not a burden, but a doorway—an invitation to remain with God even when the heart feels tired.
Jesus Himself speaks often about this kind of prayer. He tells stories of those who keep knocking, keep asking, keep waiting—not because God is reluctant, but because prayer is not merely about receiving answers. It is about remaining in relationship. Perseverance teaches us to pray not only when we feel strong or inspired, but when we feel weak and uncertain. In staying, we allow God to work not just around us, but within us.
The Church understands perseverance in prayer as an act of trust. When we continue to pray, we quietly say, “Lord, I place my time in Your hands.” God’s silence is never empty; it is often a space where faith deepens. Through repeated prayer, our desires are purified, our impatience softened, and our hearts slowly shaped to resemble Christ’s own trust in the Father.
In daily life, perseverance in prayer keeps us rooted when emotions fluctuate. Some days prayer feels warm and close; other days it feels dry. Persevering means we pray anyway—not because it feels good, but because love remains. Over time, this steady faithfulness forms a resilient heart, one that knows God is present even when unseen, listening even when silent.
Reflection – A Closing Thought
Perseverance in prayer is not about forcing God’s hand, but about letting Him gently hold ours. May we learn to trust that every sincere prayer—spoken or silent—is never wasted in His loving presence.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way.
