“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;” – Luke 18:1
Here is a command connected with counsel concerning a common problem. To understand how crucial this is, look at the last phrase first – “and not to faint”. The word faint means to be wearied, exhausted, spiritless. It speaks of losing heart or despair. Due to the danger of it, avoiding such a condition is of great importance. Thankfully our text tells us how that can be done.
Our Lord says, “men ought always to pray”. He isn’t saying we should pray after we faint, but before. Prayer is preventive. Far too many folks wait until after they faint and fall before they pray. Had they been praying it would have prevented the problem. Prayer, therefore, must be a priority. It is a prerequisite to success in all we do. Don’t wait until you faint and fall – that can have lasting consequences. Pray to avoid that danger.
Notice the word “ought”, and remember that it is Christ Himself who is speaking. That word tells us that this is a command, a necessity. That’s why he adds the word “always” – meaning at all times or without ceasing. Praying morning, noon, and night isn’t enough. We must abide in an atmosphere of prayer. To give up on prayer is to give up altogether and we don’t have the right to do that.
Truth be told some of you are troubled by your troubles and tottering on the brink – headed for a fall. Your only hope of avoiding that is to do as our Lord commands – “pray“. – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
