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Luke-18

The Persistent Prayer: A Devotional Study on Luke 18​

Introduction​

Luke 18 is a beautiful chapter filled with two powerful parables of Christ. The first parable in Luke 18 is the parable of the unjust judge, while the second is the parable of the pharisee and the tax collector. Today, we will explore the second parable - The Persistent Prayer.

Section 1: The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)​

Devotional Thought: Christ shares a parable that highlights the contrast between a boasting Pharisee and a humble tax collector. The Pharisee's prayer is filled with pride and self-righteousness, while the tax collector's prayer is filled with humility and true repentance. Take some time today to reflect on the repentant heart of the tax collector. Let's cultivate repentance as we draw near to God in humility.

Reflection Questions:

  • How would you summarize the stark difference between the Pharisee and the tax collector's prayers?
  • In what areas of your life do you need to cultivate humility and repentance?

Section 2: The Power of Persistence (Luke 18:1-8)​

Devotional Thought: Christ tells a story of a widow seeking justice from an unjust judge. The widow persistently comes to the judge, seeking what she desires. This parable teaches us that persistence in prayer can lead to answers from God, even when it seems impossible. Today, let's consider the power of persistence in prayer.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you approach prayer and persistence?
  • Can you reflect on the times God has answered your persistent prayers?

Section 3: The Importance of Faith (Luke 18:8,19)​

Devotional Thought: Christ brings the parable of persistence in prayer to a close by highlighting the importance of faith. He reminds us that when we believe God will answer our prayers, our persistence in prayer becomes a reflection of our faith. Today, let's reflect on how our persistence in prayer is rooted in faith in God's character and goodness.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you approach faith and prayer?
  • Can you share a time where your persistence in prayer led to deeper faith?

Section 4: Intercessory Prayers (Luke 22:31-32, 23)​

Devotional Thought: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Christ prayed fervently to the Father in expectation of the cup of God's wrath being taken away. While the plea was not granted, it revealed the great depth of His intercessory prayers for His disciples. Consider the intercessory prayers of Christ, and how we can follow Christ's lead in our prayers for others today.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you incorporate intercessory prayers in your prayer life?
  • Can you reflect on someone in need and pray fervently for them, following the example of Christ's intercessory prayers?

Conclusion:​

As we study the parables of the persistent prayer in Luke 18, let's be encouraged by Christ's message of hope and faith. May we cultivate humility, persistence, and faith in our approach to prayer, following Christ's example of intercessory prayers for others. Let us remember how a repentant heart, coupled with faith, leads us into the presence of God.