The prophet Habakkuk faced many hardships. At one point, he seems to have doubted whether Jehovah cared about him. So he poured out his feelings to Jehovah in prayer. Jehovah responded to the heartfelt prayer of his loyal servant. (Hab. 2:2, 3) After meditating on Jehovah’s saving acts, Habakkuk was filled with renewed joy. He became convinced that Jehovah cared for him and would help him endure any trial. (Hab. 3:17-19) What is the lesson for us? When you face hardships, pray to Jehovah and tell him how you feel. Then look to him for support. When you do, you can be confident that Jehovah will give you the strength you need to endure. And when you feel his support, your faith in him will grow stronger. If you stick to your spiritual routine, you will not allow hardships or doubts to separate you from Jehovah.​—1 Tim. 6:6-8. w22.11 15 ¶6-7

Jesus and the two criminals beside him were suffering as they felt their life draining away. (Luke 23:32, 33) Both of the criminals had been speaking abusively of Jesus. (Matt. 27:44; Mark 15:32) But one of them had a change of heart. He said: “Jesus, remember me when you get into your Kingdom.” Jesus replied with the words of today’s text. (Luke 23:39-42) Jesus’ words to the criminal should move us to think about what life in Paradise will be like. Actually, we can learn something about Paradise from the peaceful rule of King Solomon. And we can expect that Jesus, the one greater than Solomon, will work along with his corulers to bring wonderful conditions to the earth. (Matt. 12:42) Understandably, the “other sheep” should be interested in what they need to do to qualify to live forever in Paradise.​—John 10:16. w22.12 8 ¶1; 9 ¶4

Isaiah assures us that Jehovah will listen attentively when we cry out to Him and will respond quickly to our supplications. Isaiah adds: “He will answer you as soon as he hears it.” These reassuring words remind us that our Father is willing​—yes, eager—​to come to the aid of those who reach out to him. Knowing this helps us to endure with joy. Jehovah gives attention to the prayer of each one of us. Why can we say that? In the first part of Isaiah chapter 30, the pronoun “you” is used in the plural form because Jehovah is addressing his people as a group. However, in verse 19 “you” is addressed to individuals. Isaiah writes: “You will by no means weep”; “he will surely show you favor”; “he will answer you.” As a loving Father, Jehovah views us as individuals and gives our prayers his personal attention.​—Ps. 116:1; Isa. 57:15. w22.11 9 ¶5-6