Prayer Is Not Just About Devotion, But About Results

Isaac pleaded with the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was unable to have children. The LORD answered Isaac’s prayer, and Rebekah became pregnant with twins. [Genesis 25.21]

I have commented before about this particular verse. However, today, I am compelled to do so again due to circumstances today of having started a 40-day prayer commitment on this day.

The fact that Isaac pleaded with the LORD says a lot right from the beginning. There is a certain persistence that is implied in Isaac's prayer. To me, it sounds as if Isaac put his pride aside and begged God on behalf of his wife, ...which brings up another point worth consideration.

The fact that Isaac was praying for his wife should speak to us about the importance of praying for others. Yes, I know she was his wife, but she was also a woman, who, in those days in particular, found most of her life-validity in bearing children. It was important that Isaac have children with Rebekah, but he could have children with concubines or other wives. But for Rebekah, it meant a totally different thing as she would only have one husband! So, even though Isaac could have children through other women, he saw the human compassion in joining in prayer for Rebekah. His prayer was much more for her than it was for himself.

And, while we are on the topic, it is important to note that Rebekah was recognizably unable to have children - which meant, she needed a miracle. Isaac purposed to pray against the obvious unfruitful condition in Rebekah.

Then, it happened. The miracle came. Rebekah became pregnant. Prayer was answered. Intercession had succeeded. The results were obvious.

Father, help me to remain focused on the importance of praying for others. But let me not grow complacent in just praying for others - help me to remain focused that prayer is not just about devotion, but about results.