On Persistence // Luke 18:1

Today’s verse begins precedes the parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8). Jesus framed this parable as a woman seeking justice from a judge who didn’t care about God or what others. Her persistence moved the judge to act on her behalf. Now, don’t for a moment think Jesus was equating God with someone who doesn’t care…not at all; in fact, Jesus’ juxtaposition is how God is moved by our persistence because He loves us and cares about justice.

Injustice is quite a thing, though, isn’t it? I think about one time I experienced injustice and there wasn’t really anything I could do about it. The situation made me so angry I wanted to fight, but there was no opponent or adversary to mix it up with. So, I did all I could do, which was to storm the gates of heaven with pleas of mercy, beseeching justice. God answered those prayers and I am grateful. As I prayed, though, I focused in on what I knew was important to God and how I longed to serve Him according to His will.

Things don’t always end up for us the way that we want, but getting and staying in a prayer posture is critically important for two BIG reasons: (1) it keeps us striving to live in faith, and (2) to trust God’s will over our own. This ends up meaning that the prayer focus we need most has more to do with persistently staying close to God even when it might not make sense rather than trying to change God’s mind. After all, the greatest change God wants to see is in us. So, pray persistently that God’s purpose and power may propel us forward in Him.