Ephesians 6:18 (KJV): Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

ABSTRACT

This article delves into Jesus’ parable of the persistent neighbor to illustrate perseverance in prayer, contrasting God’s eagerness to respond with human reluctance. It examines teachings on the Lord’s Prayer, intercession, addressing God as Father, overcoming barriers, proper motives, and reflecting divine love through faithful practices, encouraging us to deepen our relationship with Him.

PERSISTENT PRAYER POWER

In Luke 11:5-8, Jesus tells His disciples the parable of the persistent neighbor, illustrating the importance of perseverance in prayer. The parable begins with a man seeking bread from his friend at midnight to provide for a visitor. Initially reluctant, the neighbor eventually relents, not because of friendship but due to the petitioner’s persistence. This story highlights the value of tenacity in approaching God. Ellen G. White explains, “But the selfish neighbor in the parable does not represent the character of God. The lesson is drawn not by comparison, but by contrast…But God delights to give. He is full of compassion, and He longs to grant the requests of those who come unto Him in faith” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 141, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” (Ephesians 6:18, KJV). And “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer” (Romans 12:12, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience” (Steps to Christ, p. 97, 1892). Additionally, “The strength acquired in prayer to God, united with persevering effort in training the mind in thoughtfulness and care-taking, prepares one for daily duties and keeps the spirit in peace under all circumstances” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 85, 1896). Unlike the reluctant neighbor, God eagerly responds to our prayers when we approach Him with faith. This parable reminds us that our prayers are not mere repetitions but acts of trust and relationship-building with our Heavenly Father. But how do we learn to cultivate such a connection through prayer?

LORD’S PRAYER LESSONS

The disciples’ request, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1), stemmed from their desire to experience the same connection with the Father that Jesus exemplified. In response, Jesus provided a model prayer, now known as the Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:2-4). This prayer, beginning with “Our Father,” establishes the foundation of a personal and intimate relationship with God. Sr. White emphasizes, “In order to strengthen our confidence in God, Christ teaches us to address Him by a new name…He gives us the privilege of calling the infinite God our Father” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 141-142, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15, KJV). And “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “Jesus teaches us to call His Father our Father. He is not ashamed to call us brethren. Hebrews 2:11. So ready, so eager, is the Saviour’s heart to welcome us as members of the family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching God He places the assurance of our divine relationship, “Our Father” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 103, 1896). Additionally, “The Lord’s Prayer was twice given by our Saviour, first to the multitude in the Sermon on the Mount, and again, some months later, to the disciples alone. The disciples had been for a short time absent from their Lord, when on their return they found Him absorbed in communion with God” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 102, 1896). This intimate address assures us of His love and invites us to trust Him completely. As we pray, we learn to align our desires with God’s will, fostering a relationship that transforms both our petitions and our hearts. But what does it mean to petition God not just for ourselves, but for others in need?

INTERCESSION INSIGHTS

The friend in the parable sought bread, not for himself, but for a guest in need (Luke 11:5-6). This act symbolizes intercessory prayer, where we bring the needs of others before God. Just as the friend persisted, we are called to approach God on behalf of others with unwavering faith. The neighbor’s eventual response was not out of love but persistence (Luke 11:8). Yet God’s response to intercession is far greater: “He delights to give…and He longs to grant the requests of those who come unto Him in faith” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 141, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16, KJV). And “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men” (1 Timothy 2:1, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “Today He is just as ready to listen to the petitions of His people. ‘His hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear;’ and if Christian parents seek Him earnestly, He will fill their mouths with arguments, and, for His name’s sake, will work mightily in their behalf in the conversion of their children” (Prayer, p. 272, 2002). Additionally, “There are those all around you who have woes, who need words of sympathy, love, and tenderness, and our humble, pitying prayers. Some are suffering under the iron hand of arbitrary power; others are in trouble, making every effort to do their duty, but meeting with sore trials and afflictions” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 530, 1875). Intercession allows us to reflect God’s love by becoming vessels of His blessings, thereby connecting us to His purpose of ministering to others. But how does viewing God as our Father enhance this intercessory role?

FATHERLY FAITH FOCUS

In Matthew 6:9 and other passages (1 John 3:1; Ephesians 3:14, 4:6), Jesus emphasizes addressing God as “Our Father.” This familial term reflects the deep love and trust we can place in Him. Sr. White notes, “This name…is a sign of our love and trust toward Him, and a pledge of His regard and relationship to us…it is as music in His ears” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 141-142, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not” (1 John 3:1, KJV). And “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named” (Ephesians 3:14-15, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “Our heavenly Father is the God of the universe, and Christ is the divine Son, the One equal with the Father” (Manuscript 49, 1906). Additionally, “To us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in Him. Every good gift and every perfect gift cometh from God. There is no true excellence of character apart from Him. And He is the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh unto the Father but by Him” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 347, 1890). Unlike earthly fathers, who may falter, God’s love is perfect and unchanging. As Jesus explains in Luke 11:11-12, even earthly fathers respond to their children’s needs; how much more will our Heavenly Father provide for us? This understanding challenges us to approach Him with childlike faith, trusting in His ability and willingness to care for us. But what barriers might prevent us from experiencing this fatherly provision in our prayers?

BREAKING BARRIER BLAST

While God’s willingness to answer prayer is clear, there are conditions to receiving His blessings. Psalm 66:18 warns, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Sr. White echoes this in saying, “If we have in any way grieved or wounded others, it is our duty to confess our fault, and seek for reconciliation…This is an essential preparation…to ask His blessing” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 144, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2, KJV). And “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “If we cling to any besetting sin, we shall find that our prayers are in vain” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 53, 1882). Additionally, “The Lord cannot hear the prayers of those who cherish iniquity in their hearts” (The Review and Herald, March 23, 1886). Unconfessed sin or broken relationships hinder our connection with God, blocking the flow of His blessings. Likewise, Malachi 3:7-12 highlights disobedience as a barrier. God’s promises are contingent upon our willingness to align with His will. By addressing these barriers, we open ourselves to His transformative power, enabling our prayers to align with His purposes. But what should motivate us to pursue such alignment in our prayer life?

MOTIVE MARVEL MASTERY

The purpose of prayer is not merely to fulfill personal desires but to glorify God and advance His kingdom. In John 17:19, Jesus prays for sanctification and unity among His followers, setting an example for selfless prayer. Sr. White underscores, “All His gifts are promised on condition of obedience…All who obey Him may with confidence claim the fulfillment of His promises” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 145, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7, KJV). And “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts” (James 4:3, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “All who obey Him may with confidence claim the fulfillment of His promises” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 145, 1900). Additionally, “Obedience is the test of discipleship. It is the keeping of the commandments that proves the sincerity of our professions of love” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 146, 1896). Acts 5:32 reinforces the role of obedience in receiving the Holy Spirit. Our prayers must be motivated by a desire to honor God and serve others, transforming us into instruments of His love and grace. But how does this transformation enable us to reflect God’s love through our prayers?

REFLECTING LOVE RADIANCE

Prayer is a profound reflection of God’s love, as it invites us into a relationship where His compassion and generosity are revealed. Jesus’ teachings in Luke 11:9-10 assure us that God’s response to prayer is rooted in His character: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Sr. White adds, “He gives to us that we may minister to others, and thus become like Himself” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 141, 1900). Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7, KJV). And “And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you” (1 Thessalonians 3:12, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “The angels love to bow before God; they love to be near Him. They regard communion with God as their highest joy; and yet the children of earth, who need so much the help that God only can give, seem satisfied to walk without the light of His Spirit, the companionship of His presence” (Steps to Christ, p. 94, 1892). Additionally, “Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him” (Steps to Christ, p. 93, 1892). Through prayer, we not only receive God’s blessings but are also equipped to share His love with the world. This cycle of receiving and giving mirrors God’s own nature, transforming us into His image and extending His kingdom on earth. But how can we commit to this cycle in our daily lives?

The principles of prayer outlined in Scripture and Sr. White’s writings call us to a deeper, more intentional relationship with God. As individuals and as a community, we are invited to approach God with faith, perseverance, and selfless motives. Scriptures affirm this truth, such as “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2, KJV). And “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17, KJV). Sr. White further elucidates, “Christ has urged that His people pray without ceasing. This does not mean that we should always be upon our knees, but that prayer is to be as the breath of the soul. Our silent requests, wherever we may be, are to be ascending to God, and Jesus our advocate pleads in our behalf, bearing up with the incense of His righteousness our requests to the Father” (The Review and Herald, October 30, 1883). Additionally, “Be fervent in prayer, and watch in the Spirit” (The Review and Herald, October 30, 1883). By addressing barriers, aligning our hearts with His will, and interceding for others, we reflect His love and fulfill His purpose in our lives. Let us, therefore, “knock on heaven’s door” with confidence, trusting in God’s promise to hear and respond in ways that reveal His boundless compassion and grace.

If you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comments below. Prayer meetings are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. To join, enter your email address in the comments section.

Search

Search

SELF-REFLECTIONS

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these teachings on perseverance in prayer, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these complex themes to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned community members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about these topics in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of faithful prayer and God’s boundless love?