Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. (Romans 12:12)

Daily reading: John 19:23-42

Dwight L. Moody, the renowned American evangelist, began life in humble circumstances but became known worldwide for his passionate preaching and founding of Christian institutions. In 1873, during a preaching tour in Europe, he drew massive crowds in England and Scotland. On his return voyage to America, Moody’s ship was halted for days in thick Atlantic fog. Realising the delay might cause him to miss an important meeting he believed God wanted him to attend, he said to a fellow believer, “Let us go to the cabin and pray for the fog to be lifted.” After Moody’s simple prayer, his companion hesitated to pray. Moody responded, “You don’t believe God has lifted the fog, and I believe He already has—so there’s no need for you to pray.” When they returned to the deck, the fog was gone. Such answers to prayer don’t always come as we wish—but they do happen, if only we have faith and watch for them.