Pray until something happens (PUSH): Lessons from Luke 18:1-8
Luke 18:1-8
The parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18 teaches powerful lessons about faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of consistent prayer.
In this passage, Jesus contrasts the behaviour of an unjust judge with the faithfulness of God. He reminds us that if even a corrupt judge grants justice to a persistent widow, how much more will our loving and righteous God respond to the cries of His people?
Luke 18:6–7:
"And the Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?’"
Jesus uses this parable to call us to a life of unwavering prayer. Let’s explore two key lessons we can learn from the widow’s approach:
1. Consistency in Prayer
1 Thessalonians 5:17
"Pray without ceasing."
The widow’s persistence is a reminder to develop the habit of consistent prayer. She didn’t waver or give up, nor did she seek justice from multiple sources. She remained steadfast in her plea to the judge, proving the sincerity of her desire.
The same is true for us. Pursuit is proof of desire and genuine change begins with a consistent pursuit of God in the place of prayer. Just as the widow stayed focused, we are called to maintain a consistent prayer life, no matter the distractions or delays.
2. Perseverance Through Challenges
Ephesians 6:18
"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere".
The widow’s unwavering determination demonstrates the power of perseverance. Despite the judge’s initial disregard, she pressed on, fully convinced that justice would come. She must have had an unwavering faith that the judge was definitely the place where she would get the justice she desired, so she decided that no matter how long it took, she was going to persevere until she received her answer.
For us, perseverance in prayer requires an unwavering faith that God hears us and answers our prayers according to His perfect will. Delays, discouragements, or unanswered prayers may test us, but they also refine our faith. Unlike the widow, who sought help from an indifferent judge, we petition a loving Father who is eager to answer His children.
The Heart of Prayer: A Heart of Faith
Our prayers go up to God not as mere words but as incense and the fragrance is determined by the state of the heart of the person offering the incense.
A prayer of faith rises as a pleasing aroma to God.
A prayer of fear or doubt can cloud our trust in His promises.
No wonder Jesus ended the parable with the question below;
Luke 18:8b
"However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?"
Jesus challenges us to trust Him completely, setting aside all alternatives and making prayer our first and constant response. It’s about more than just having a “prayer life”—it’s about living a life of prayer.
PUSH: Pray Until Something Happens
The familiar principle of PUSH—Pray Until Something Happens—is a reminder of the transformative power of relentless prayer.
God is inviting us to keep praying, trusting, and seeking Him, regardless of circumstances.
I invite you to keep praying and never give up. Do not be content with just having a prayer life but strive to live a life of prayer.
Pray continually…
Pray no matter what…..
Pray Until Something Happens!
Remain blessed,
- Ifeanyi Dim