Does the Bible Say Anything About Being Persistent in Prayer?

Prayer is a central aspect of many religious traditions, including Christianity. Christians believe that prayer is a way to communicate with God and to seek His guidance and help. One idea that is often associated with prayer is persistence. But does the Bible say anything about being persistent in prayer? In this blog post, we will explore this question and look at what the Bible says about persistence in prayer.

What is Persistence in Prayer?

Persistence in prayer refers to the idea of continuing to pray even when it seems like God is not answering. It means not giving up on prayer, even when it feels like there is no response. Persistence in prayer involves faith, trust, and patience.

Biblical Teachings on Persistence in Prayer

There are several passages in the Bible that teach about the importance of persistence in prayer. One of the most well-known is the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8. In this parable, Jesus tells the story of a widow who repeatedly goes to a judge to ask for justice against her adversary. The judge initially ignores her, but eventually grants her request because of her persistence.

Jesus concludes the parable by saying, "Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly" (Luke 18:7-8). This parable teaches that persistence in prayer is important because it demonstrates faith and trust in God's ability to answer prayers.

Another passage that speaks to the importance of persistence in prayer is Matthew 7:7-8. Jesus says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." This passage encourages believers to be persistent in prayer and to continue to ask, seek, and knock until their requests are answered.

In Colossians 4:2, Paul tells the church in Colossae to "continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving." This verse emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer and encourages believers to be dedicated to prayer.

Why is Persistence in Prayer Important?

Persistence in prayer is important because it demonstrates faith and trust in God. When we continue to pray even when it feels like there is no response, we are expressing our belief that God hears our prayers and is working on our behalf. Persistence in prayer also strengthens our relationship with God and helps us to develop a deeper sense of faith.

Additionally, persistence in prayer helps us to cultivate patience and endurance. When we continue to pray over a long period of time, we learn to trust in God's timing and to wait patiently for His response. This patience and endurance can be applied to other areas of our lives and can help us to persevere through difficult times.