Matthew 20:29-34 gives exhortations regarding prayer. First, pray with sincere faith—“Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!” (v. 30) As blind as these two men were, they believed that Jesus could help them, though they never saw

any of His miracles. And they “cried out.” When you run into a problem, where do you go, your own resources or do you seek the Lord in faith? If you work to solve it apart from God, you lack faith. Do you believe God can take care of your problem? Do you believe He will when you pray? Second, pray in spite of hindrances—“The multitude warned them that they should be quiet; but they cried out all the more.” (v. 31) They were not going to be silenced that easily. They needed help, and they didn’t care what others thought. Nothing would get in their way. What an example! We are not to be deterred by opposition. We are not to be discouraged by difficulties. We are called to “pray and not lose heart.” (Luke 18:1) Remember the parable of the importunate widow? Remember the friend who came to borrow bread at night? See Luke 18:1-8 and Luke 11:5-10. We must bring our requests to the throne of grace, and like Jacob, say, “I will not let You go unless You bless me!” (Genesis 32:26) Don’t be stopped by the nay-saying ones with a lack of faith. Third, pray for specific need—“Jesus stood still and called them, and said, ‘What do you want Me to do for you?’” (v. 32) Jesus is very gracious to those who seek His help in their walk with Him. Be ready to ask Jesus what you want Him to do. Be specific! Don’t pray “Have Your will.” without telling your need. In the garden, Jesus asked, “Let this cup pass.” before He prayed, “Nevertheless.” It is recorded in 2 Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” Ask the Lord to meet your need.

Sin cera, Erik

Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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