“And he (Jesus) told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” (Luke 18:1, ESV)
How’s your prayer life these days? I confess that I struggle with praying consistently and persistently - the “always” and “not losing heart” in the above passage. I suspect that I am not alone in that struggle. Thankfully, Jesus himself teaches us about prayer throughout his earthly ministry. And he uses a comical parable to encourage us to keep persisting!
In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus tells the story of a widow that kept on persistently going to a judge - a mean and corrupt one - to ask for justice. The judge refuses for a while, but eventually gives her justice because he is beat down by her continual bothering!
When I picture the scene, small and weak widow vs. powerful and mean judge, I can’t help but smile. I love how Jesus uses this story to make an amazing contrast.
“Will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night?” ( Luke 18:7)
God is so very different from the mean and corrupt judge! He wants us to cry out to him with our needs – our persistent praying is an indication of our faith in Him!
Let this parable encourage you today. Maybe you are facing unanswered prayers, prayers that you have been praying over and over, especially during this season of sickness and chaos. God hears the cries of His children!
Above all, keep persisting in praying. May Jesus find us faithful in doing so. Amen!
“Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8)
I need this reminder and encouragement!