The Power Of Persistent Prayer Series

THE POWER OF PERSISTENT PRAYER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 18:1

"Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 7:7-8, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Hebrews 4:16, James 5:16, Luke 11:5-10

INTRODUCTION:

In the Christian walk, prayer is not only a means of communication with God but also a powerful tool for spiritual warfare and growth. Persistent prayer refers to the continuous, unrelenting act of bringing our petitions before God, regardless of the delay in answers. Jesus taught the importance of persistent prayer through parables like the Parable of the Persistent Widow, showing us that prayer should be persistent, consistent, and unyielding. This study will examine how to engage in unrelenting intercession and the impact it has on our lives and the world around us.

1. UNDERSTANDING PERSISTENT PRAYER

Persistent prayer is not simply a matter of repeating words, but of consistent faith and fervency before God, trusting in His faithfulness to answer.

a) The Call to Persistent Prayer (Luke 18:1)

Jesus encouraged His followers to pray continually and not to give up, underscoring the importance of persistence in prayer.

b) Praying Without Ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Persistent prayer is not confined to a single moment but should be an ongoing part of our daily lives.

c) Fervency in Prayer (James 5:16)

Persistent prayer involves praying with passion and a sense of urgency, believing that God will act in His time.

d) Trusting God's Timing (Psalm 27:14)

While persistent prayer is about continuing to ask, it also requires trusting that God will answer at the right time and in the right way.

e) Biblical Example: The Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)

The widow kept coming before the unjust judge, demanding justice. Her persistence finally led to a favorable outcome, demonstrating the power of perseverance in prayer.

2. THE POWER OF PERSISTENT PRAYER

Persistent prayer is powerful because it aligns our hearts with God’s will, strengthens our faith, and brings about spiritual breakthroughs.

a) Persistence Builds Faith (Matthew 17:20)

Each time we persist in prayer, our faith grows as we see God’s faithfulness in answering our requests.

b) Shifts Spiritual Atmospheres (Daniel 10:12-13)

When we pray persistently, we engage in spiritual warfare that shifts the atmosphere, moving the hand of God to bring His will to pass.

c) Prayers Breakthrough Barriers (Matthew 7:7)

Persistent prayer breaks down barriers that would otherwise hinder the fulfillment of God’s promises in our lives.

d) Draws Us Closer to God (James 4:8)

In persistence, we grow in intimacy with God, continually seeking His presence and guidance.

e) Biblical Example: Elijah’s Prayer for Rain (1 Kings 18:41-45)

Elijah prayed seven times for rain, demonstrating the power of persistent prayer in bringing forth the supernatural.

3. HOW TO ENGAGE IN UNRELENTING INTERCESSION

Unrelenting intercession requires commitment, discipline, and a heart aligned with God’s purposes. Here are practical ways to engage in persistent prayer.

a) Start with a Heart of Faith (Mark 11:24)

Your prayers should be rooted in faith that God hears and will answer. Pray believing that your petition is already heard.

b) Pray in the Spirit (Romans 8:26)

Persistent prayer is often strengthened when we allow the Holy Spirit to intercede through us, especially when we don’t know what to pray for.

c) Be Specific in Your Requests (James 4:2)

Rather than vague or generalized prayers, bring specific petitions to God. Be clear about what you are asking for in persistent intercession.

d) Stay Consistent and Unwavering (Galatians 6:9)

Don’t be discouraged when answers don’t come immediately. Keep praying persistently, knowing that in due season, God will respond.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Fasting and Prayer (Daniel 9:3)

Daniel fasted and prayed persistently for the restoration of Jerusalem, showing how prolonged intercession aligns with God’s will.

4. THE IMPACT OF PERSISTENT PRAYER

Persistent prayer has a profound impact, not just on our own lives but also on the lives of others and the world around us.

a) Breakthroughs in Personal Circumstances (Luke 11:9-10)

Persistent prayer brings breakthrough in our personal challenges, whether physical, financial, or relational.

b) Transformation in Communities and Nations (2 Chronicles 7:14)

As believers engage in unrelenting intercession, entire communities and nations can experience transformation and revival.

c) Restoration of Lost Hope (Romans 15:13)

Persistent prayer brings restoration, healing, and a renewed sense of hope for those who feel discouraged or defeated.

d) Greater Spiritual Authority (Luke 10:19)

As we engage in persistent prayer, our spiritual authority is heightened, enabling us to walk in greater victory over spiritual forces.

e) Biblical Example: Hannah’s Prayer for a Child (1 Samuel 1:9-20)

Hannah’s persistent prayer for a child was answered by God, and her faith became an example for others in the community.

5. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES IN PERSISTENT PRAYER

While persistent prayer is powerful, it is not always easy. We must be prepared to face challenges, but God equips us to overcome them.