Pestilence Confronted: Persistence Matters in Heaven

In this devotional we have been discussing the uncertainties of the Covid situation which has impacted many of us with anxiety, loss of livelihood (work and business), suffering and even loss of life.  

Last week we saw how through the miracle of the loaves and fishes, Jesus was teaching his disciples that God-sized, unsolvable problems in life and ministry can and should be brought to him, the greatest miracle worker and healer ever known. You may be asking: what is a good way to do this?  We all know that a simple prayer often does not change our troubling circumstances. Since Covid is a long-lasting pandemic we will need a strategy beyond a single prayer. Jesus foresaw such circumstances and told his disciples a parable (story, allegory) “to the effect that they ought to always pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18: 2-8).  

Persistence matters in heaven

In this parable, a “widow” (very vulnerable women in this day) keeps asking a “judge” to get “justice against her (my) adversary.” Even though the judge is less than a moral man, yet because of the widow’s persistence he gives her justice. And Jesus says, “will not God (who is greater and more perfect) give justice (aid, help, restoration, healing) to those who cry to him day and night?”

Jesus assures us: “He (God) will give justice to them speedily.” Jesus ends the parable with the phrase: “when the Son of Man (Jesus) comes (at the end for final judgement), will he find faith on earth?”  

Simple lesson: Our faith is demonstrated, strengthened and rewarded as we persist in bringing our needs to the Lord God Almighty! Never stop asking God for justice and help.

Blessings,
Jim Firnstahl

Global Prayer Points

As we seek to see our marketplace transformed by the Gospel, join us in prayer this week for the following requests from our Global Leadership.