The Upper Room Devotional – 20th January 2026, Tuesday Message
Keep Praying
Miki Parsons (England, United Kingdom)
Today’s Reading
Luke 18:1-8
Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. – James 5:17-18 (NIV)
The Upper Room Devotional 20th January 2026 | MESSAGE
When I arrived for dinner with a new friend from church, she introduced me to another guest, “Come and meet Kathleen.” As I entered the lounge I was surprised to find an elderly woman I had not seen in years. Her sparkling blue eyes met mine, and with tears of joyful recognition, we embraced.
Despite the time that had passed and her changed appearance, I still recognized this wonderful woman. She had regularly visited my family after my father had left us. Whenever she visited, she brought thoughtful little gifts and was genuinely interested in my brother and me. I loved the sense of peace she always embodied.
Now, almost three decades since we last saw each other, I discovered that she was a Christian and had prayed constantly for my family to come to Christ. My mother, brother, and I had since committed our lives to Christ, and I believe Kathleen’s prayers played a big part in making that happen.
Sometimes we see the results of our prayers, and other times we don’t. But we are encouraged to keep praying and trust the outcome to God.
Thought for the Day
I will pray and trust God with the outcome.
Prayer Focus
Those who pray for me
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, help us to keep on praying, trusting that you hear us and are at work, even when we don’t perceive it. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 20th January 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More