How to Persevere in Prayer When It Feels Difficult: A Guide for Staying Faithful in Prayer

Prayer is the lifeline of our relationship with God, but there are seasons when it can feel difficult to keep praying. Maybe you’re going through a time of spiritual dryness, or perhaps you’ve been praying for something for a long time without seeing an answer. During these moments, it’s easy to feel discouraged and wonder if God is really listening.

But the Bible encourages us to persevere in prayer, even when it’s hard. Jesus taught us about the power of persistence, and throughout Scripture, we are reminded that God hears every prayer. If you’re struggling to keep praying, this guide is for you. Let’s explore how to develop a consistent prayer life, even when God seems distant.

### The Call to Persistence in Prayer

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of persistence in prayer. In Luke 18:1-8, He shares the parable of the persistent widow, a woman who kept coming to a judge asking for justice. Though the judge was unrighteous, he eventually granted her request because of her persistence. Jesus used this parable to illustrate that if an unrighteous judge would grant justice because of persistence, how much more will God, who is just and loving, respond to our persistent prayers?

In Philippians 4:6, Paul also encourages us to bring everything to God in prayer: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This verse reminds us that prayer is not just about asking for what we need, but also about coming to God with thanksgiving, trusting that He is in control.

### Practical Tips for Developing a Consistent Prayer Life

If prayer feels difficult for you right now, here are some practical tips to help you develop a more consistent and faithful prayer life:

#### 1. **Start Small and Be Consistent**

If prayer feels overwhelming, start small. You don’t have to spend hours in prayer to be faithful. Begin with just a few minutes each day, and be consistent. Over time, as you build the habit, you can gradually increase your prayer time. The key is consistency. Even short, simple prayers can help you stay connected to God.

#### 2. **Use Scripture as Your Guide**

Praying through Scripture can help you stay focused and remind you of God’s promises. Find verses that speak to your situation and pray them back to God. For example, if you’re struggling with anxiety, you can pray Philippians 4:6-7, asking God for His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Scripture also gives us examples of persistent prayers, like Hannah’s prayers for a child (1 Samuel 1) or Daniel’s prayers for understanding (Daniel 10). These stories remind us that God hears every prayer, even when the answer takes time.

#### 3. **Create a Prayer Schedule**

One way to ensure consistency in prayer is to create a schedule. Set aside specific times each day for prayer. It could be first thing in the morning, during a lunch break, or before bed. Having a set time for prayer helps establish it as a priority in your day.

You can also use a prayer journal to track your prayers and note any answers or insights God gives you. Writing out your prayers can help you stay focused and give you a record of God’s faithfulness over time.

#### 4. **Pray with Others**

Sometimes, praying alone can feel difficult, especially if you’re going through a tough season. Consider joining a prayer group or finding a prayer partner. Praying with others can provide encouragement and accountability. It can also remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles—others are praying with you and for you.

5. **Be Honest with God**

If you’re struggling to pray, be honest with God about it. He already knows what’s on your heart. You don’t have to pretend everything is fine. Pour out your heart to Him, just as David did in the Psalms. God can handle your doubts, frustrations, and questions. In fact, being honest with Him can deepen your relationship and lead to greater intimacy in prayer.

6. **Trust That God Hears Every Prayer**

One of the biggest obstacles to perseverance in prayer is the fear that God isn’t listening. But the Bible assures us that God hears every prayer. In 1 John 5:14-15, we are told, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.”

Even when it feels like God is distant, He is near. He hears every whisper, every cry, and every plea. Trust that He is working in ways you may not yet see.

Encouragement to Keep Praying

Persevering in prayer is not always easy, but it’s worth it. Prayer is a powerful way to draw near to God and experience His presence, even in difficult times. Remember that you are not alone in this journey—God is with you, and He is faithful.

Keep praying, even when it’s hard. Trust that God hears you, and that He is working all things together for your good. As you persevere in prayer, may you find peace, strength, and hope in His presence.