Scripture to Read: Luke 18:2-5
Jesus began to lay out the parable for the people He was teaching. We read in Luke 18:2–5, “In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect man. 3 There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me legal protection from my opponent.’ 4 For a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection, otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.’” It’s interesting that Jesus plainly gives us the picture of a judge who is just downright mean and seems to have zero compassion for anyone, even for widows. Jesus wanted to make sure everyone understood that this widow was facing what seemed like a very hopeless situation because the judge had no fear of God and respected no one. But because the widow was persistent, unwilling to be deterred by the judge’s lack of compassion, care, or kindness, the judge decided to grant her the legal protection she requested so she’d stop bothering him. The widow chose not to lose heart in this seemingly hopeless situation with the judge. The widow knew that the judge was the only one who could give her what she needed, so she was diligent in making her requests until he finally granted her request. God wants us to come to Him with every need, for He is the only one who can meet our needs.
Challenge & Application
Why do we often give up so easily in our prayers and decide that it’s just not worth it?
What are some things God taught you about the widow, and how can you apply this to your prayer life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!