Persistence in Prayer
Luke 11:8 (NKJV) I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs.
On the heels of sharing the template for their request as “how to pray”, the Lord speaks an important element for those who would learn to pray; PERSISTENCE.
The parable of the reluctant friend isn’t about God’s reluctance to answer our plea, but as to the persistence of our prayers. Keep in mind the scenario, an unexpected guest, it’s dark and the supplicant is limited in his ability to meet the surprise of the guest’s visit.
Doesn’t that parallel the current COVID-19 status?
This disease is “unexpected”, few of us ever heard of Wuhan, China or COVID-19 as we celebrated the beginning of 2020. There was darkness, which I suspect many feel due to social distancing, self-quarantine and isolation. Limited in being able to deal with this “unseen, unexpected, uninvited guest” can seem overwhelming as “how to” respond to this.
Yet we do have a Friend, unlike the reluctant friend in this parable, is willing, ready and able to not only respond to our plea for provision He will provide protection!
The point being, will we be persistent, determined to seek The only One Who can bring us through with supply and security.
Note the last words in “he will give as many as he needs”. That speaks of abundance!
Press on, don’t give up or waver in this season. The Lord will bring you and your loved ones through!