When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth? – Luke 18:8

Do you understand why you pray? What motivates your prayers? Is it to try to convince God to give you what you are asking for? Is it from a sincere desire to spend time with your heavenly Father and Sovereign Lord? Or maybe it is to “bother” God so that He hurries up and answers.

Jesus told a parable at the beginning of Luke 18 that addresses this question. In fact, Luke introduced it as one that Jesus told to illustrate “that they ought always to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). The parable was about a corrupt judge and a widow who repeatedly begged him for justice against an adversary. While the judge initially ignored the woman’s pleas, he eventually gave in to her requests so that she would leave him alone.

By telling this story, Jesus contrasted how God, a righteous judge, differs from an unrighteous one, such as the judge in the story. God acts because He cares for His people, not simply to avoid being bothered by His children. Jesus’ point in this story is to encourage His followers to continue to pray. He reminded them that faith in God means persevering and not losing heart.

This reminder is just as important to believers today. Do you see God as reluctant to act? Do you pray trusting that He will answer? As you spend time in prayer, examine your heart. Ask the Lord to reveal where your faith in Him may be weak and let Him strengthen you. Let today be a new day with fervent prayer and a renewed relationship, as you lift the nation up to God.