“And this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.” (Luke 2:37, NKJV)
I hid my smile as I listened to one of my Sunday school students describe his grandmother’s devotion to the class. “My grandma prays a lot. She’s old and doesn’t have much else to do.” The “old grandma” was middle aged and raising the grandson by herself. I’m pretty sure she had a few things to do. But, I agree, she was a woman of prayer, and many of those prayers centered on her grandson. He is now a minister of the gospel.
Let me tell you about another woman of prayer. She lived centuries ago, but she is a wonderful example of what a life dedicated to God looks like.
A FAMILIAR FIGURE
The elderly lady was a familiar figure at the Temple. In fact, most people could not remember a time that she wasn’t there. Anna had been widowed after just seven years of marriage. She could have remarried, I suppose, but instead she chose to devote herself to prayer and fasting. Her life was centered on one thing: worshiping God. The Bible also calls her as a prophetess, someone with a message. Oh, what a message she would soon have to share.
Anna’s story is found in Luke 2. The day Mary and Joseph entered the Temple with baby Jesus, Anna immediately recognized who the child was. Their Redeemer had finally come, and she excitedly spread the news to others who had also longed for Him to appear. With joy she thanked the Lord for this long-anticipated moment and rushed to tell others the good news.
“And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38, NKJV)
THE SPIRIT OF ANNA
Anna may not have enjoyed an easy life, but she did live a fulfilling life. Even with the difficulties she faced as a widow, she chose to live with purpose. She felt no self-pity. Nor did she become discouraged or bitter about what life had dealt her. Instead, she dedicated herself to the things of God and turned her pain into a life of prayer.
What does a woman of prayer look like? The characteristics of someone devoted to prayer might include:
- Being consistent in her walk with God.
- Having dedicated times of prayer.
- Combining the Word with her prayers.
- Praying with faith and expectation.
- Showing persistence in her prayers.
- Interceding for others.
- Listening to the voice of the Lord.
- Giving thanks in all circumstances.
There are many among us today with the spirit of Anna, but we may never notice. They are humble and do not strive for attention or recognition. They are steadfast, love God deeply, show compassion for others, and follow through when they promise to pray for you.
Each of us can become a worshiper like Anna. It happens when we choose to make God our main priority in life.
“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2, NKJV)
PERSONAL REFLECTION
- How committed am I to making prayer a priority in my life?
- Are my prayers centered on advancing the kingdom of God or are they usually for my own needs?
- Am I able to pray with gratitude even during the difficult seasons of life?
- Do I have the spirit of Anna in my prayer life?
Devotion by Mary Loudermilk
