18-Aug-2024 – Pray fervently but with complete faith
And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint – Luke 18:1
In today’s message, the Lord highlights an important aspect of our prayer life. He imparts knowledge through a parable. Let us submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit to understand and practice this truth.
Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me – Luke 18:5
There was a widow who had lost her husband, and since she alone was approaching the judge, it seems she either had no children or they were not caring for her. Her situation was such that no one was there to stand up for her or to help her.
On the other side, the judge was neither a God-fearing man nor did he care about people. He was not even mindful of the widow’s problem.
However, the woman did not stop pleading with the judge. There is an important lesson to grasp here. She didn’t go to her neighbors for recommendations, nor did she protest. Instead, she continued to plead because she knew that the judge was the only one who could render a judgment. If he issued a judgment, it would be final. She knew what the judge was capable of.
And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? – Luke 18:7
Did the Lord equate God with the wicked judge? Not at all. He was highlighting that if a wicked judge could grant justice to her upon persistent pleading, how much more surely would your heavenly Father, the only righteous judge, provide you justice, right?
I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? – Luke 18:8
Upon careful study, we understand that people often experience delays in receiving answers to their prayers. They pray and pray but do not receive answers. This experience may lead some to conclude that God doesn’t love them, or that He isn’t there, otherwise why would He not answer? But the true reason is that our prayers are lacking faith.
Most of us are Christians and we pray out of habit, as we learned from childhood. It’s like publishing a requirement in an advertisement—someone who reads it becomes aware of your need, and if they are interested, they can reach out to you.
However, if you know exactly whom to involve to meet your needs, you would go directly to that person and ask for help. If they are busy, you would request their time; if they are still busy, you would try your best until you finally get the help you need.
When we pray, we must do so knowing that the Lord alone is our hope. Whether government officials need to be involved, or an expert is required, or a supernatural intervention is necessary, the Lord Himself takes care of it.
So when you pray, trust that the Lord alone can act in your situation. Surrender completely into His hands. The most important thing is to pray without ceasing. Our God doesn’t mind being approached persistently. Feel free to ask Him in prayer, convey your trust in Him, and update Him if you see any progress or even if you have questions or doubts. He will clarify things, guide you forward, and satisfy you with the right answer at the right time.
Prayer
Dear loving Heavenly Father, thank you for your love and grace. Thank you for teaching us today about consistent and persistent prayer, with faith and hope. Help us to trust you in all of our situations, and thank you for teaching us how to pray. I thank you and pray in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Amen!
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