“And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them?” – Luke 18:7
When something’s burdening your soul, how long will you pray about it before you get distracted by something else or give up in frustration? A day? A week? A month? A year? Or as long as it takes???
Jesus taught this parable that begins Luke 18 to emphasize that He wants His followers to be persistent in prayer, never giving up. He tells a story about a fictional, corrupt judge who eventually does the right thing just because he hates being bothered by a nagging widow’s persistent requests. Jesus says that if a bad guy like that will eventually do the right thing for the wrong reason, how much more will your loving, perfect, holy Father in heaven be faithful when you’re persistent about praying for whatever’s on your mind?!?
God is faithful, but His timing is His own. He wants you to be persistent in prayer, never giving up, because that will draw you closer to Him, deepen your faith, give you a better understanding of His will and timing, and refine your character. God isn’t being mean or selfish in delaying His answer to your prayers – He is truly orchestrating the best possible outcome for everyone. So, pray and keep on praying!
Don’t lose interest, get distracted, or give up in frustration just because it takes weeks, months, or years to see the results for which you’re praying. If you’re praying in accordance with God’s will, He is listening, He is delighted to talk with you, and He is looking forward to answering your prayers when the timing is perfect. Be patient. Be persistent. Be prayerful. #FollowJesus