“…the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” – James 5:16.

Have you ever come across a situation that tortured you for a time, maybe years and no matter what would not go away. Well, there is hope. In His travels on earth, a desperate case was once brought to Jesus: a boy tormented by a dark and malevolent spirit that left him paralyzed and endangered. Jesus asked the boy’s father how long this had been happening.
“From childhood,” the father replied. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us!” (Mark 9:21-22).

Jesus responded to the father’s tentative “if”: “If you can? Everything is possible for one who believes” (v. 23). The father, painfully aware of his own limitations, cried out, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

Jesus then rebuked the spirit: “You deaf and mute spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again” (v. 25). The boy was set free. But it is apparent before the father had come up to Jesus in his desperatness he had also sought the disciples help but without success. Humbled, afterwards the disciples asked why they had been unable to drive it out.

Jesus answered, “This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting” (v. 29, KJV).

Three vital lessons stand out in this account.
First, some afflictions—especially those originating from the enemy—can oppress a person for years, even from childhood. Long-standing battles are real. But one should nrver give up!

Second, belief matters. Jesus pressed the father on the issue of faith. The honest cry, “I do believe; help my unbelief,” is often the starting place of breakthrough.

Third, prayer and fasting are the keys. Certain spiritual strongholds yield only to sustained, consecrated prayer and fasting. Jesus points us to these as the means of release.

Whatever condition has persisted for years and resisted every effort, do not surrender to the enemy’s delight. Remember the father never gave up. Believe that Jesus can deliver. Then take up the keys He has given: prayer and fasting.

Reflection: Is there a long-standing matter that has troubled me, and have I begun to doubt that God can bring it to rest?

Prayer for Today: Almighty Father God in heaven, today I pray in the powerful name of Jesus: bring me victory in that situation where I have done everything humanly possible and only You can bring success. Help me realize the power available through prayer and fasting—the keys You have left us to unlock breakthrough. This I pray in Jesus’ name!