Because of her barrenness, Hannah had been downcast for years. Finally, she thought it was time to settle the matter. "In her bitterness she prayed to the Lord, weeping copiously, and she made a vow" (1 Sm 1:10-11). This broke the gridlock. Hannah conceived and bore a son (1 Sm 1:20).

King Hezekiah was being terrorized by the Assyrian king, Sennacherib. Finally, he took a nasty letter from Sennacherib, "went up to the temple of the Lord, and spreading it out before Him, he prayed to the Lord" (Is 37:14-15). In a short time, Sennacherib went back to his country, where he was murdered by two of his sons (Is 37:38).

A "girl who had a clairvoyant spirit" followed Paul around for several days. "Finally Paul became annoyed, turned around, and said to the spirit, 'In the name of Jesus Christ I command you, come out of her!' Then and there the spirit left her" (Acts 16:16, 18).

Paul "was given a thorn in the flesh, an angel of Satan" (2 Cor 12:7). Through prayer, Paul tried to settle the matter twice. On the third try, it was settled. The thorn was not removed, but Paul was no longer confused about this situation. It was settled in his mind; he was content (2 Cor 12:10).

As you begin this new year, you will have to leave some things unresolved, but certain things can be settled. Ask the Lord to show you His will. Start the new year without any unnecessary problems. "Lose no time" (see Mt 5:25). Settle it now.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 26, 2015

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