Faith That Keeps Asking Series

Series: Jesus- Son Of Man [#63]

FAITH THAT KEEPS ASKING

Luke 18:1-8

Introduction:

Today, we are diving into a powerful message about persistent prayer- A faith that keeps asking, keeps seeking, and keeps knocking. As the old saying goes, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." As believers, our perseverance in prayer reveals something deeper: our trust in God's justice, timing, and relationship with us.

In a World where instant gratification is the norm, (fast food, instant messaging, quick fixes) our faith reminds us that some things require persistent, unwavering prayer. As Martin Luther once said, "To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Today, we explore how persistent prayer demonstrates our faith in God's justice, reveals our dependence on His timing, and ultimately strengthens our relationship with Him.

Luke 18:1-8

Persistent prayer…

1. Demonstrates faith in God's justice.

Jesus shared the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge to illustrate the importance of unwavering prayer. The widow, despite lacking influence or power, continually approached the judge, seeking justice against her adversary. Though initially reluctant, the judge ultimately granted her request because of her persistence. Jesus then asked, "And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?" This teaching emphasizes that persistent prayer is rooted in our steadfast belief that God is just and faithful. It’s an act of trust, declaring that even when circumstances seem bleak, we believe God's justice will ultimately prevail.

Many face injustices in modern life, (racial inequalities, economic hardships, personal struggles) and persistent prayer becomes our way of affirming faith in God's righteousness. It is not about convincing God to act, but about laying hold of His willingness to bring justice. As Martin Luther said, "Prayer is not overcoming God's reluctance. It is laying hold of His willingness." Persistent prayer signifies trusting that God's justice is perfect, even if its fulfillment appears delayed. It is a powerful expression of faith in action, affirming our confidence that God will set things right in His perfect time.

Persistent prayer…

2. Reveals our dependence on God’s timing.

The widow's persistence exemplifies more than just her faith in God's justice; it reflects her deep dependence on His timing. She understood she couldn't achieve her desires on her own and relied on God's intervention, trusting that He would answer in due time. Often, our prayers feel unanswered, and we wonder why it seems like our pleas bounce off the ceiling. Jesus’ parable teaches us that God's timing is perfect, even if it doesn't align with our expectations. In recent years, amidst global crises, (pandemics, climate change, political upheavals) our patience and trust are tested. Yet, persistent prayer serves as a reminder that God's sovereignty remains unwavering; even when answers are delayed, our continued asking, seeking, and knocking keep us aligned with His divine plan.

As Jean-Jacques Rousseau said, "Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet." Our prayers nurture this patience, teaching us to trust that God's timing surpasses our own. We are ultimately dependent on Him, not only for the answers we seek but also for the strength to wait patiently. This reliance encourages us to surrender our need for immediate answers, knowing that God's plan is perfect and His timing is always right. In practicing persistent prayer, we learn to trust in His sovereignty and find solace in His divine timing, which brings about a richness of faith and hope even in the face of uncertainty.

Persistent prayer…

3. Strengthens our faith and relationship with God.

Persistent prayer is not merely about obtaining our desires; it is about cultivating a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father. As we continue to ask, seek, and knock, our faith is strengthened, and our trust in God's goodness becomes more profound. Think of any meaningful relationship, (whether marriage, friendship, or parenthood) those bonds are reinforced through continuous communication. Similarly, persistent prayer fosters intimacy with God, reminding us that we are His children and that He delights in hearing us.

In recent times, many have turned to prayer as a vital source of comfort and connection amid crises. This ongoing dialogue with God sustains us, bolsters our faith, and reassures us that we are never alone. As A.B. Simpson eloquently said, "Prayer is the link that connects us with God," emphasizing its essential role in nurturing our spiritual bond and providing reassurance in challenging moments.

Conclusion:

Jesus' teaching urges us to develop a faith that persists- One that keeps asking, seeking, and knocking. Our unwavering prayer reflects our trust in God's justice, highlights our dependence on His perfect timing, and deepens our relationship with Him. Remember, faith that continues to ask is rooted in believing in God's character- His justice, His love, and His sovereignty. As the song reminds us, "Oh, what peace we often forfeit, oh, what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer." This encourages us to remain steadfast in prayer, confident that our Heavenly Father is always listening.