Then the Lord said to me, “Do not pray for these people anymore.” (Jeremiah 14:11 NLT, , 4-2-13)

God tells Jeremiah, “Quit praying for these people.”

Jeremiah’s response? But I said, “Alas, Sovereign Lord! The prophets keep telling them, ‘You will not see the sword or suffer famine. Indeed, I will give you lasting peace in this place.’ ” (Jeremiah 4:13) Which is, of course, a prayer for the people God had just told him to quit praying for. And he’s not done yet. In verse 20, he prays this:

Lord , we confess our wickedness and that of our ancestors, too. We all have sinned against you. For the sake of your reputation, Lord , do not abandon us. Do not disgrace your own glorious throne. Please remember us, and do not break your covenant with us.

God says quit praying. Jeremiah just keeps going.

Is there such a thing as hopeless? Is there any person or any nation I should give upon? Jeremiah didn’t seem to think so, even in extreme circumstances. Keep on praying, because giving up should never be an option.

[Father, forgive me for when I get discouraged in prayer. Give me the faith to keep on praying.]