How can we apply the woman's persistence in prayer to our lives?

The Setting of Mark 7:28

In Gentile territory, a Syrophoenician mother pleads for her demon-tormented daughter. Jesus tests her with the “children’s bread” metaphor. She replies,

“ ‘Yes, Lord,’ she replied, ‘even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’ ” (Mark 7:28)

Her humble boldness wins His immediate “Yes.”

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What Her Persistence Teaches

• She calls Him “Lord”—faith anchored in His authority.

• She admits unworthiness yet will not walk away.

• She bases her appeal on His very words.

• She keeps asking until He answers.

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Lessons for Our Prayer Life

1. Humble Boldness

– Recognize His holiness yet approach confidently (Hebrews 4:16).

2. Scripture-Rooted Requests

– Pray promises like Matthew 7:7; align desire with truth.

3. Perseverance

– “Pray at all times and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1).

4. Trust the “Crumbs”

– One word from Jesus is enough; no need is too hard.

5. Intercession

– Like her, plead for others’ deliverance (1 Timothy 2:1).

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Practical Ways to Persist

• Set regular prayer slots; also “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

• Keep a journal—note both requests and answers.

• Speak verses such as Philippians 4:6 when anxiety rises.

• Fast to express earnest dependence (Acts 13:3).

• Find a prayer partner; agree together (Matthew 18:19).

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Encouragement While Waiting

• Delay refines faith; God’s timing is perfect.

• “Ask in faith, without doubting” (James 1:6).

• Harvest comes “if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

The Syrophoenician woman shows that persistent, Scripture-saturated, humble yet bold prayer moves the heart of our Lord. Keep asking; His crumbs carry miracle-sized power.