Luke 18:1-8

ALWAYS PRAY AND NOT GIVE UP

Keywords 18:1

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

 

1. “Grant me justice against my adversary” (1-5)

In view of the hardship coming on the earth (17:30-36), Jesus wanted his

disciples to have prayerful faith. In his parable, the widow is powerless and

completely at the mercy of an unjust judge. Justice, for her, was a matter of life

and death. Yet it seemed impossible to obtain since the judge did not fear God

and controlled the situation. But she did not give up! Her persistence in bringing

her plea to him eventually wore him down. She never wavered in her pursuit

of justice. This wicked judge was completely moved by her, even to fear, so he

yielded, finally granting her justice.

 

2. “Will he find faith on the earth?” (6-8)

Jesus’ point is this: God is not like the unjust judge! If such a wicked man is

persuaded to grant justice, how much more will God bring about justice for his

chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night! God will surely grant justice; there

can be no doubt about that. But Jesus wonders: When he comes, will he find faith

on the earth, faith that cries out to God day and night? Let’s do so starting today.

Prayer Father, thank you that you are not like the unjust judge but hear and

answer our crying out prayer faithfully. Help me pray and not give up.

One Word Don’t give up; Pray!