What can we learn about persistence in prayer from Luke 18:2-8?

◄ Lessons on persistence in prayer? ►

The Setting of the Parable

Luke introduces the account by saying Jesus “told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Then He presents two contrasting figures:

• “A judge who neither feared God nor respected men” (v. 2)

• “A widow who kept coming to him” (v. 3)

Despite the judge’s hardened indifference, the widow’s repeated pleas finally wear him down. Jesus concludes, “Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? … He will swiftly carry out justice” (vv. 7-8).

Key Observations from the Text

• Loneliness of the widow: widows in the first century had no social power. Her only resource was persistence.

• Injustice of the judge: his lack of “fear” and “respect” (v. 2) highlights just how hopeless her odds seemed.

• Relentless petitioning: “She kept asking” (v. 3). The Greek verb conveys continuous action.

• Inevitable breakthrough: “Because this widow keeps pestering me, I will give her justice” (v. 5). Even a corrupt human judge responds to repeated pleading.

• Divine contrast: God is righteous, loving, and attentive. If persistence moves an unjust judge, how much more will it move our righteous Father (vv. 7-8).

Principles of Persistent Prayer

1. God welcomes repeated requests

– Luke 11:9-10: “Keep asking, and it will be given to you.”

– 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.”

2. Persistence strengthens faith

– Romans 12:12: “Be persistent in prayer.”

– Hebrews 11:6: “He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”

3. Delay is not denial

– Habakkuk 2:3: “Though it lingers, wait for it; it will surely come.”

– James 5:7-8: The farmer “waits for the precious fruit of the soil, being patient about it.”

4. God’s justice is certain and sure

– Psalm 9:7-10: “He will judge the world in righteousness.”