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Abandoning Prayer

We often hear football coaches say, “We need to establish the run.” This means that they want to get their running back consistent carries early in the game to have a balanced offense that keeps the opposing defense off-balance.

Frequently, however, when a team struggles early on, they get impatient and start throwing the ball on most downs, putting all the pressure on the quarterback to make plays.

When this takes place, we hear the commentator say, “It looks like they’ve abandoned the run.” This happens because they either aren’t gaining as many yards as they hoped, or the deficit on the scoreboard seems too large.

The truth is, a solid running attack prepares and sets up the passing game. Even when it seems like they aren’t gaining any traction on the ground, the entire offense suffers when a team gives up on the run instead of remaining persistent.

I think in many ways this provides a picture of our prayer life – specifically during a difficult “game.”

We start off praying passionately, knowing we need God to come through for us. But too often, when we’re not getting the yardage we hoped we would, or our deficit seems too large, we abandon our communication with God and shift our attention elsewhere.

As hard as it is when our circumstances don’t change right away, we must remain “committed to the run.” We must continue to turn to God and hand off our worries, fear, and concerns. Ultimately, we can trust that He will answer them according to His will.

The Bible implores us to “Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2).

Ephesians 6:18 drives this home, as well: “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

Today, let’s not abandon our “prayer game” when it gets tough. Instead, let’s persistently turn back to God, trusting Him to provide answers in His time!

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I’m sorry that sometimes I abandon my prayers and stop trusting You. I confess to being impatient and ask that You help me rely on You for guidance and strength. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.