ANNA, THE PROPHETESS

And there was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. . . . And she never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayer. And at that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Luke2:36–38

This year, as the National Day of Prayer approached, one woman in my church did her best to evoke an enthusiastic response from members of a day time Bible study.

I watched as many offered her incredulous stares that silently stated, What planet are you on? What do you mean, meet for prayer? Call a prayer meeting at your own church and you’ll know what I mean. Only a handful of people bother to attend and it’s always the same group. However, if we fail to pray consistently, it is little wonder we are without guidance for our leadership.

Anna had faithfully served in the temple her entire life. And despite her advanced age, she remained there even after others had gone home for the evening. She was a prophetess; she foretold the truths of God to the people. No wonder He used her life.

God had promised Anna that she would see the Messiah before she died. She waited eighty-four years, biding her time in service to the Lord. And He kept His Word.

Let us strive to follow Anna’s prayerful example, and we, too, will be blessed by God.

Lord, call my heart to faithfulness and prayer.

May I serve as an example to encourage others.

#women #Bible