Most of pray every day. We pray quick at the start of our day or in the car or at meals or in the midst of a daily stress. We pray when a friend calls in need. Or how about when we listen to the news at noon?
But there really is a difference in praying for something and praying through something. The first is often a quick prayer like for a meal or a test. The second is ongoing and takes a period of time.
Let’s talk about a real life strategy of circling …
The Israelites were getting ready to take the city of Jericho, which had both high and thick walls. Those walls were seemingly insurmountable and God gives the battle plan:
“You and your fighting men should march around the town once a day for six days.”
OK and then …
“On the seventh day you are to march around the town seven times, with the priests blowing the horns. When you hear the priests give one long blast on the rams’ horns, have all the people shout as loud as they can. Then the walls of the town will collapse, and the people can charge straight into the town.”
(Joshua 6:3-5, NLT)
If we are to be honest here, this is just not your typical battle strategy. They had to obey (and believe) that simply marching, blowing horns and a loud shout were going to achieve victory. And here is where Mark Batterson raises an interesting point:
Most of us don’t get what we want because we quit circling. (page 35)
We often think praying once should be sufficient. We give up too soon not praying through – which means until God responds or intervenes.
May we keep on praying, not allowing silence or waiting to discourage us.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NIV)
Keep. On. Circling!
This is Day 6 in 31 Days Of Going In Circles. You can find the entire series here .
Today I am joining with … Unforced Rhythms and Playdates With God and Sharing His Beauty and Mon. Musings and Inspire Me Mon. and Making Your Home Sing and Motivation Mon. and Salt & Light .
Salt and light
W
I love this book and the power of prayer that Mark Batterson teaches so well. We are not a people of perseverance for the most part so he is right when he says we stop circling. We are a world of give me now and quick fixes and not staying the course for the duration. Have a blessed day!
Mary, a very true observation. We have lost the art of staying the course. And yet, that is the only way we will be able to go the path He has determined for us. So glad you share your thoughts with me! Have a great day!
“But there really is a difference in praying for something and praying through something. ”
Ooh, excellent point, Joanne. I’d much rather pray once and be done. But I’m glad people don’t pray for me that way, but continue praying THROUGH to completion. Thanks for this encouragement today to persevere.
May we be persistent in prayer & do the hard work that is needed. So glad you stopped here today, Lisa.