What is the meaning of Luke 18:5? Yet The tiny word signals a turning point. The judge has already admitted he “does not fear God or regard man” (Luke 18:4), yet something unexpected is about to happen. Scripture often pivots on small words that highlight God’s greater purpose (cf. “But God” in Ephesians 2:4). Here, even an unrighteous official is moved to act—setting up Jesus’ how-much-more lesson for those who pray to a righteous Father (Luke 18:7-8; Matthew 7:11). Because this widow keeps pestering me The widow’s only leverage is perseverance. She has no husband, no money, no social standing—just unrelenting appeals. Her tireless approach mirrors Jesus’ earlier call to “always pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Other examples of persistent seekers underline the same truth: • The friend at midnight who kept knocking until the door opened (Luke 11:5-8). • Jacob wrestling through the night until he received blessing (Genesis 32:26). • The Syrophoenician mother who refused to leave without healing for her child (Mark 7:26-29). God invites that same holy tenacity: “Give Him no rest until He establishes Jerusalem” (Isaiah 62:7) and “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). I will give her justice The cynic’s concession shows that persistence secures a verdict even from a corrupt court. How much more certain, then, is the believer’s plea before the perfect Judge who “executes justice for the oppressed” (Psalm 146:7), “defends the cause of the fatherless and widow” (Deuteronomy 10:18), and promises speedy vindication for His elect (Luke 18:7-8). Justice is not a begrudging favor with God; it is His delight (Psalm 33:5). We can approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16), knowing He loves to set things right. Otherwise, she will wear me out The unjust judge acts to avoid personal exhaustion, not from compassion. His words expose selfish motives and magnify the contrast with our Lord, who “neither slumbers nor sleeps” (Psalm 121:4) and never tires of hearing His children. When we pray, we do not badger a reluctant deity; we commune with a Father eager to work all things for our good (Romans 8:28). Still, the widow’s dogged determination illustrates a principle: perseverance keeps faith alive and engages the promises of God (Galatians 6:9; Colossians 4:2). Application for believers today • Keep praying even when heaven seems silent—delay is not denial (Luke 11:9-10). • Trust that God’s timing is perfect; He will bring justice “speedily” (Luke 18:8) though it may feel slow (2 Peter 3:9). • Remember God’s character: unlike the judge, He is righteous, compassionate, and fully aware of our needs (Psalm 34:15). • Let persistent prayer shape your faith. Continuous communion aligns our hearts with His will (1 John 5:14) and lifts anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7). • Encourage one another to persevere. The widow stands alone; believers stand together (Hebrews 10:24-25). summary Luke 18:5 shows a corrupt judge granting justice solely to stop a widow’s relentless pleas. Jesus uses that contrast to encourage unwavering, persistent prayer. If continual requests can move an unrighteous magistrate, how much more will they move the righteous God who loves His people, champions the oppressed, and promises timely vindication. |
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