Persistent Prayer

Scripture: Luke 18:1 - Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart.

Have you ever been praying with a heavy heart and it seemed like God was taking too long to answer your prayer – and then you got discouraged and felt like giving up on your prayer request?  The right way to respond in that situation is to turn your doubt and feelings into faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and never give up on God no matter how bad the circumstance may get.  We are always to be persistent in prayer.  Do not give up on God. (Psalm 34:6) We are called to pray without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17 ).  Also (Ephesians 3:20) Now unto Him (Jesus) who is able to do great things for us and through us by His mighty power.  Jesus introduced this parable to His disciples and for us that we should always pray and not to lose heart or to give up on God --just as the widow in the parable was persistent in her request to the unjust judges.
 
Jesus taught us some biblical principles that we need to learn and apply from the parable about God, the unjust judge, and the widow who was persistent in her request.  (1 ) The widow demonstrated determination and faith, and she looked beyond her circumstance and was persistent in asking for her request.  As Christians, we have the privilege to ask God our Father (Matthew 7:7-11) for things.  We are to ask, seek, knock, and we shall receive.  (2 ) If the unjust judge who didn’t fear God nor care for humanity answered the widow’s request, how much more would a just/faithful God do for His children (the elect)? (Philippians 4:19)  God loves/cares for us, and He comforts us.  He is the creator of all things that are in Heaven and Earth, and He has power and authority over all things – including any unjust judge – who will be judged by God one day.  (3 ) Persistent prayer to God also will transform our prayer life.  It will help us to see things from God’s point of view and understand who He is.  We should pray according to His perfect will – not for our own selfish desires. (I John 5:14 - Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.)  The question is – If Jesus was to return today, would He find you being persistent in prayer and being faithful in doing His will?

Prayer:  Dear Father – Thank You for hearing our prayers and answering our prayers according to Your perfect will/timing.  You always know what is best for us. Our expectation should always be in You and You alone; and because of that, we give You all the honor, glory, and praise!!  In Jesus name. Amen.

(by Pastor Robert Williams)
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