A FOREST NIGHT

The leaves have fallen from the trees,

save the willowy group of Tamaracks;

and the coyotes yip in the rustling leaves

with the moonlight on their backs.

The shadows grow in the chilly air

and the wind brings out an owl,

and they know that winter will bring its share

when the coyotes start to howl.

Yet, they hold on fast through the stirring night,

like the ones who always pray,

keeping vigilance to Morning Light

and faith in a brand new day.

And he spake a parable unto them to this end, 

that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.

Luke 18:1

A FOREST NIGHT

 

For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched with the feeling

of our infirmities; but was in all points

tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

Hebrews 4:15

Jesus, our high priest, sympathizes with us. He’s touched by our infirmities and knows the weight of hurt, persecution and disease. Even this year, He knows how it has been and what we have struggled with.

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Deuteronomy 31:6

God’s ear is attentive to the distress calls of people who call on Him. His eye goes to and fro seeking those who would call on Him so that He may show Himself strong on their behalf (2 Chronicles 16:9). He’ll perfect that which concerns us (Psalm 138:8). He keeps track of tears and collects them in a bottle (Psalm 56:8). Calling on God can change a predicament. Whether He will or not is another thing, and in His time, but He is able.

Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

Luke 18:5

The parable of the persistent widow shows us that we should keep praying. The persistent prayer request was finally granted. Our continual committing to God of what weighs heavy on our heart is what we can do. Giving up is not an option. I heard a woman who is a church member, attends regularly and has been recognized for giving a lot of money say she gave up on prayer. What kind of Christians are we if we don't believe in prayer? 

 

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Psalm 50:15

Calling on the name of the Lord is a common theme throughout the Bible. God is willing to help and delivers for His glory. Like those before us, be a persistent caller. And like those before us, don’t give up. Relying on alcohol and drugs is a poor substitute that doesn't last but relying on prayer lasts.  

Call unto me, and I will answer thee and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

Jeremiah 33:3 

When Richard Wurmbrand was 39, he was put into prison for his faith. His cell was underground. He was in a pit for a total of 14 years. But he kept praying, even for his persecutors. Eventually, he was freed and God kept him alive to the age of 92, and he and his wife went on to start the Voice of the Martyrs.

Remember them that are in bonds,

as bound with them;

and them which suffer adversity,

as being yourselves also in the body.

Hebrews 13:3

Let’s remember to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters around the globe who are in bondage for their faith. Keep a prayer appointment with our Creator God for today, Sunday, November 1st, 2020. It is the International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians. And pray throughout the year.

The leaves are falling from the trees here in my neck of the woods. The willowy tamaracks are gearing up for what comes next. Creation’s timing reminds us that although it might look like things are dying, a reward is coming, like morning following night. There will be a return of the King. Only this time, He comes not as the sacrificial Lamb but the conquering Lion able to give the crown of life.

Fear none of those things which thou

shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast

some of you into prison, that ye may

be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:

be thou faithful unto death,

and I will give thee a crown of life.

Revelation 2:10

The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.

Psalm 145:15

Endure difficult times with ongoing prayer and patience.