In Luke chapter 18 Jesus is speaking about a widow that is persistent in getting justice. As He finishes up this parable, He also asked a profound question: “When the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on earth?” We could easily answer “yes”, but personally I fear spouting my reply too quickly, especially considering the number of times my tests have proved my doubts. Not about who God is or even who Jesus is for that matter, but more like – if my faith is – as it should be. Although God is still known for blessing people despite their times of doubt, I still believe we must take this question to heart concerning each avenue.
In this very chapter we should read further on and examine the Parable of the Pharisee that exemplified self-righteousness based on how he prayed in reference to the tax collector. Thereafter, we learn there was the brief mention about whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a child, will not enter it. Then it goes on to tell the story of the rich young ruler that lacked the ability to sell everything, give the proceeds to the poor, and then follow Jesus. This is all said after His question (as stated above) and He also doesn’t forget the mention of His prophetic arrival. With these things in mind, perhaps we should evaluate this chapter and give this more examination.
Consider the Old Testament and think about Abraham. Have you ever wondered if your faith is like his? Or what makes us any different than the Israelite people at times when they lacked faith as Moses tried to lead them? What sets me apart? What sets you apart?
Going back to our main verse, I also don’t believe it’s a coincidence that Jesus discusses all of this in its order without a purpose, as He had just shared with them about the coming of the day when the Son of Man is revealed.
Think about this woman that Jesus is using as an illustration (Luke 18:1-8), and the fact that she did not give up on her request. I can honestly say that once my determination kicks in gear with absolute faith as I cry out to the Lord, and I’m determined to hear from heaven, I can vouch for the fact that the answer may not come in my timing or even in the package I asked for, but glory be to God alone, it does come sooner or later! And when it does, I am faced with the reality that God was looking for my persistence that I refuse to lose heart when I pray.
Discouragement can rush in like an unexpected windstorm or it may come in a way that seems like we are drowning in the valley of despair, so let’s reflect on God’s word concerning another widow. In 1 Kings chapter 17, this woman was prepared to give up, but God sent Elijah to her home and when she carried out what the man of God commanded, everything changed. The Lord not only supplied her need for survival, but later when her son became sick (and mind you that she still lacked faith as you will see when you read it), God used Elijah (whom also questioned Him) so He could revive her son. This story gives me hope and it should for you, that when we are down in spirit and our faith is weak, God is still with us.
Take a moment and recall some of the past instances when the Lord sent help as you were about to lose heart too. Allow those precious memories to renew your spirit and your faith in God alone.
~Question: Are you downhearted? If not, then when was the last time that you reached out to someone and represented a type of Elijah to encourage someone in their faith? What sets you apart? Do you exercise your faith like the persistent widow that Jesus used as an example in Luke chapter 18?
~Prayer: Father, if I should ever lack in my faith, please send an Elijah to reassure me of its importance and remind me of Jesus’ words “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” And increase my faith dear Lord, as I pray and learn to completely trust you. In Jesus mighty name.
~The Bible says in Luke 18:1 “Then Jesus spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart…..” *
FINDING GOD IN EVERYTHING 