FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP: POWER OF PERSISTENT PRAYER

“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” (Jeremiah 33:3, KJV)

ABSTRACT

This article explores Christ’s teachings on prayer from Luke 11:1-13, highlighting persistence, the model prayer, intercession, and conditions for effective communion with God. It emphasizes prayer as a vital, intimate connection that reflects divine love and invites us to approach our Heavenly Father with faith and obedience, fostering spiritual growth and blessings.

PRAYER’S ESSENCE!

We are called to a deep understanding of prayer, not as a mere ritual, but as a vibrant connection with our Creator. This essay delves into Christ’s teachings on prayer, particularly as found in Luke 11:1-13, exploring its profound implications for our lives and ministry. We will unpack the parable of the friend at midnight, examine the privilege of addressing God as Father, and consider the conditions necessary for our prayers to be effective. Prayer unites us with heaven as “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;” (Colossians 4:2, KJV) and “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). Ellen G. White describes “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. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to Him.” (Steps to Christ, p. 93, 1892). Sr. White further notes “Prayer is the channel of communication between our souls and God. God speaks to us through His word; we respond to Him through our prayers, and He always listens to what is offered up in faith.” (Prayer, p. 8, 2002). Through this exploration, we will seek to grasp the heart of God’s love and cultivate a prayer life that reflects His character. But what parable did Christ relate to His disciples in regard to prayer?

MIDNIGHT FRIEND’S BOLD PLEA!

Jesus used the parable of the friend at midnight to illustrate the importance of persistence in prayer. “And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” (Luke 11:5-8, KJV). This parable, though seemingly depicting a selfish neighbor, actually highlights the persistent and earnest nature of true prayer. The friend’s persistence, even when faced with initial refusal, eventually leads to his need being met. This underscores the importance of not giving up in prayer, but continuing to bring our requests before God with unwavering faith. As Ellen G. White writes, “We should come to God with the boldness of a child asking a favor of a loved parent. ‘And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.’” (Steps to Christ, p. 95, 1892). The Bible also reveals this through “Men ought always to pray, and not to faint;” (Luke 18:1, KJV) and “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17, KJV). Sr. White explains “Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be ‘instant in prayer,’ to ‘continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.’” (Steps to Christ, p. 97, 1892). Sr. White adds “The persistent asking brings the petitioner into a more earnest attitude, and gives him an increased desire to receive the things which he asks.” (The Review and Herald, May 28, 1895, 1895). Just as the friend persisted, so should we persist in our prayers, trusting in God’s willingness to answer. What request did one of His disciples make?

DISCIPLE’S EAGER REQUEST!

One of Jesus’ disciples, witnessing the power and efficacy of His prayer life, asked to be taught how to pray. “And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” (Luke 11:1, KJV). This request reveals a deep desire to connect with God in the same way Jesus did. The disciple recognized the vital role prayer played in Jesus’ ministry and yearned to experience that same level of communion. This demonstrates a teachable spirit and a longing for spiritual growth. The Bible reinforces this longing with “Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.” (Psalm 25:4, KJV) and “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” (Psalm 143:10, KJV). Ellen G. White affirms “Kneeling in Prayer Teaches Reverence and Awe for God—May God teach His people how to pray. Let the teachers in our schools and the ministers in our churches, learn daily in the school of Christ.” (Prayer, p. 258, 2002). Sr. White further states “Fathers, mothers, you need to seek God morning and evening at the family altar, that you may learn how to teach your children wisely, tenderly, lovingly.” (Child Guidance, p. 517, 1954). Like the disciple, we should have a desire to learn and grow in our prayer life, seeking guidance from Jesus. How did Jesus answer the request?

LORD’S PRAYER UNVEILED!

Jesus responded to the disciple’s request by giving them a model prayer, commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer. “And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.” (Luke 11:2-4, KJV). This prayer provides a framework for our communication with God, encompassing adoration, submission, provision, forgiveness, and protection. It is not meant to be recited mindlessly, but rather to guide our thoughts and desires as we approach God in prayer. As Ellen G. White states, “The Lord’s Prayer is a sample of what our prayers should be. It is not to be repeated merely as a form, but as an illustration of how we should come to God.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 131, 1896). Scripture supports this model through “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.” (Matthew 6:9, KJV) but wait, original has Matt 6:9 later, but ok. Use “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” (Psalm 141:2, KJV) and “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” (1 Timothy 2:8, KJV). Sr. White observes “The Lord’s Prayer Exhibits Beauty in Simplicity—Christ’s lessons in regard to prayer should be carefully considered. There is a divine science in prayer, and His illustration brings to view principles that all need to understand. He shows what is the true spirit of prayer, He teaches the necessity of perseverance in presenting our requests to God, and assures us of His willingness to hear and answer prayer.” (Prayer, p. 176, 2002). Sr. White also writes “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). The Lord’s Prayer offers a beautiful and comprehensive pattern for our prayers, touching on essential aspects of our relationship with God. For whom did the friend in this parable petition his neighbor?

INTERCESSION FOR ANOTHER!

The friend in the parable petitioned his neighbor for bread to feed a visiting guest. “And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?” (Luke 11:5-6, KJV). The friend’s request was not for himself, but for another. This highlights the element of intercession in prayer, where we bring the needs of others before God. It reflects a spirit of generosity and concern for the well-being of others. The Bible echoes this intercession with “Pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:16, KJV) and “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). Ellen G. White highlights “Let us pray, not only for ourselves, but for those who have hurt us, and are continuing to hurt us. Pray, pray, especially in your mind.” (Prayer, p. 272, 2002). Sr. White elaborates “You are to be the agent through whom God will speak to the soul. Precious things will be revealed to you, and you will carry about with you the atmosphere of heaven. For the good of others, you will seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added.” (Prayer, p. 272, 2002). Our prayers should extend beyond our own needs to include the needs of those around us, demonstrating a Christ-like love. What caused the neighbor finally to grant the request of his friend?

PERSISTENCE WINS THE DAY!

The neighbor, though initially reluctant, granted the request because of his friend’s persistence. “I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.” (Luke 11:8, KJV). The word “importunity” suggests a relentless, unwavering persistence. It wasn’t just a single request, but a continued, earnest plea. This emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer. God is not reluctant to answer our prayers, but He desires us to approach Him with persistence and faith, demonstrating the sincerity of our hearts. Scripture upholds this with “I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.” (Psalm 40:1, KJV) and “Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” (Mark 11:24, KJV). Ellen G. White conveys “The victory is not won without much earnest prayer, without the humbling of self at every step. Our will is not to be forced into co-operation with divine agencies, but it must be voluntarily submitted.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 142, 1896). Sr. White stresses “It is hard study, hard toil, persevering diligence, that obtain victories. Waste no hours, no moments. The results of work—earnest, faithful work—will be seen and appreciated.” (Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, p. 124, 1977). But what is the relationship of God and His children?

GOD’S EAGER RESPONSE!

Jesus contrasts the reluctant neighbor with the loving character of God, emphasizing His eagerness to answer our prayers. “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Luke 11:9-10, KJV). God is not like the selfish neighbor. He is our loving Father who desires to give good gifts to His children. This passage assures us of God’s willingness to hear and answer our prayers. As Ellen G. White beautifully puts it, “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). The Bible illustrates God’s readiness with “Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” (Psalm 37:4, KJV) and “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). Sr. White declares “Prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse, where are treasured the boundless resources of Omnipotence.” (Prayer, p. 299, 2002). Sr. White also expresses “Every prayer which is sent up in faith from an honest heart will be heard of God and answered, and the one that sent up the petition will have the blessing when he needs it the most.” (Prayer, p. 50, 2002). We can approach God with confidence, knowing that He is a loving Father who longs to bless us. How do these concepts reflect God’s love?

DIVINE LOVE MANIFESTED!

The concepts of persistent prayer, intercession, and God as a loving Father all beautifully reflect the depth of God’s love for us. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV). God’s love is not distant or detached, but actively involved in our lives. He desires a close relationship with us, inviting us to bring our needs and the needs of others before Him. As Ellen G. White affirms, “God loves us, He cares for us, He pities us; and He has promised to give us the Holy Spirit to help us.” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 384, 1958). The Scriptures show this love further in “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” (Jeremiah 31:3, KJV) and “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” (Psalm 103:13, KJV). Sr. White confirms “The Lord draws out the soul in prayer, and gives us to feel His precious love. We have a nearness to Him, and can hold sweet communion with Him.” (Prayer, p. 9, 2002). Sr. White adds “It is our privilege to drink largely at the fountain of boundless love. What a wonder it is that we pray so little. God is ready and willing to hear the sincere prayer of the humblest of His children.” (Prayer, p. 7, 2002). Through prayer, we experience the tangible reality of God’s love, His willingness to listen, and His desire to bless us. With what name can we address God?

CALLING HIM FATHER!

We are privileged to address God as “Father.” “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.” (Matt. 6:9, KJV). This intimate name reflects the close relationship God desires to have with us. It speaks of His love, care, and provision. As Ellen G. White explains, “In order to strengthen our confidence in God, Christ teaches us to address Him by a new name, a name entwined with the dearest associations of the human heart. He gives us the privilege of calling the infinite God our Father.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 141-142, 1900). The Bible conveys this privilege with “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 “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). Sr. White articulates “Pray to thy Father which is in secret. In the name of Jesus we may come into God’s presence with the confidence of a child.” (Prayer, p. 184, 2002). Sr. White also declares “I do not say that I will pray the Father for you; for the Father Himself loveth you. Make use of this heavenly provision for yourselves.” (Prayer, p. 221, 2002). Calling God “Father” expresses our trust and love for Him, and reminds us of His commitment to us as His children. What will an earthly father do if his children petition him?

FATHERLY GIFTS BESTOWED!

Jesus uses the example of earthly fathers to further illustrate God’s willingness to give good gifts to His children. “If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?” (Luke 11:11-12, KJV). Just as earthly fathers strive to provide for their children, so much more does our Heavenly Father desire to bless us. This passage emphasizes the goodness and generosity of God. The Bible compares this with “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17, KJV) and “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” (Luke 11:13, KJV). Ellen G. White illustrates “The father, above all others, should have a clear, active mind, quick perceptions, calm judgment, physical strength to support him in his arduous duties.” (The Signs of the Times, p. 809, 1881). Sr. White contrasts “The earthly parent but also to their heavenly Father.” (The Adventist Home, p. 212, 1952). We can trust that God, our perfect Father, will give us what is best for us, even more so than earthly parents. What should be the motive of all our petitions?

GLORIFYING GOD SUPREME!

The ultimate motive of all our petitions should be the glorification of God. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” (John 17:19, KJV). While this verse refers specifically to Jesus’ sanctification, the principle applies to our prayers as well. Our petitions should align with God’s will and purpose, seeking His glory above our own desires. The Bible guides this motive with “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31, KJV) and “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, KJV). Ellen G. White guides “Prayer is not intended to work any change in God; it brings us into harmony with God. It does not take the place of duty.” (Prayer, p. 290, 2002). Sr. White instructs “Temptation is enticement to sin, and this does not proceed from God, but from Satan and from the evil of our own hearts.” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 116, 1896). A selfless motive, centered on God’s glory, should permeate our prayers. But when can the Lord not grant our petitions?

SIN’S BLOCKING BARRIER!

The Lord cannot grant our petitions when we harbor sin in our hearts. “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:” (Psalm 66:18, KJV). This verse highlights the importance of a pure heart in prayer. Unconfessed sin creates a barrier between us and God, hindering our prayers. As Ellen G. White states, “If we cherish iniquity in our hearts, if we cling to any known sin, the Lord will not hear us; but the prayer of the penitent, contrite soul is always accepted.” (Steps to Christ, p. 94, 1892). Scripture warns further with “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” (Proverbs 28:9, KJV) and “And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.” (Isaiah 1:15, KJV). Sr. White warns “The prayer of faith is never lost; but to claim that it will be always answered in the very way and for the particular thing we have expected, is presumption.” (Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 533, 1977). Sr. White cautions “Satan tries to obstruct our prayer access to God—The darkness of the evil one encloses those who neglect to pray.” (Prayer, p. 299, 2002). Confession and repentance are essential for effective prayer. What is necessary in order to receive the blessing that God has in store for those who pray according to His will?

LOVE’S ESSENTIAL COMMAND!

Loving one another is essential for receiving God’s blessings through prayer. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” (John 13:34, KJV). This verse emphasizes the connection between love and answered prayer. When we love one another as Christ loved us, we are in a position to receive His blessings. As Ellen G. White explains, “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 that we may come before God in faith, to ask His blessing.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 144, 1900). The Bible strengthens this with “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8, KJV) and “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). Sr. White expresses “Our prayers should be full of tenderness and love. When we yearn for a deeper, broader realization of the Saviour’s love, we shall cry to God for more wisdom.” (Prayer, p. 20, 2002). Sr. White shares “The Lord draws out the soul in prayer, and gives us to feel His precious love. We have a nearness to Him, and can hold sweet communion with Him.” (Prayer, p. 9, 2002). A spirit of love and forgiveness is vital for effective prayer. What is also a reason why the Lord cannot answer our prayers?

STEWARDSHIP’S VITAL ROLE!

Tithing and offerings are also connected to answered prayer. “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” (Malachi 3:7-10, KJV). This passage emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in our stewardship. When we withhold tithes and offerings, we are robbing God and hindering the flow of blessings. The Bible links this to “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” (Proverbs 3:9-10, KJV) and “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.” (Luke 6:38, KJV). Ellen G. White teaches “The system of tithes and offerings was intended to impress the minds of men with a great truth—that God is the source of every blessing to His creatures, and that to Him man’s gratitude is due for the good gifts of His providence.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 525, 1890). Sr. White advises “There are men whom God has blessed, whom He is testing to see what response they will make to His benefits. They have withheld their tithes and offerings until their debt to the Lord has become so great that they grow pale at the thought of rendering to the Lord His own—a just tithe.” (Tithing Principles and Guidelines, p. 116, 1991). Faithful stewardship is an integral part of a life that is open to God’s blessings. What should be the motive of all our petitions, and especially that of the Holy Spirit?

OBEDIENCE UNLOCKS BLESSINGS!

The ultimate motive of all our petitions, especially those prompted by the Holy Spirit, should be obedience to God. “And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.” (Acts 5:32, KJV). The Holy Spirit guides us in prayer, aligning our desires with God’s will. When we are obedient to God, our prayers are in harmony with His purpose. As Ellen G. White writes, “So it is with every one of God’s requirements. All His gifts are promised on condition of obedience. God has a heaven full of blessings for those who will cooperate with Him. All who obey Him may with confidence claim the fulfillment of His promises.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 145, 1900). Scripture affirms obedience with “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:” (Isaiah 1:19, KJV) and “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;” (Hebrews 5:9, KJV). Sr. White proclaims “All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ. And if we consent, He will so identify Himself with our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His will, that when obeying Him we shall be but carrying out our own impulses.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 668, 1898). Sr. White emphasizes “Obedience—the service and allegiance of love—is the true sign of discipleship. Thus the Scripture says, ‘This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments.’” (Steps to Christ, p. 60, 1892). Obedience is a key element in receiving God’s blessings through prayer.

PRAYER’S LIFELINE LEGACY!

Prayer is not merely a duty, but a privilege—a lifeline connecting us to our loving Heavenly Father. Through persistent prayer, we draw closer to God, experiencing His love and guidance in our lives. The Bible encapsulates this with “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, KJV) and “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6, KJV). Ellen G. White inspires “It is our privilege to open our hearts, and let the sunshine of Christ’s presence in. My brother, my sister, face the light. Come into actual, personal contact with Christ.” (Prayer, p. 176, 2002). Sr. White encourages “Daily prayer is as essential to growth in grace, and even to spiritual life itself, as is temporal food to physical wellbeing.” (Prayer, p. 176, 2002). As we cultivate a prayer life marked by faith, obedience, and a genuine concern for others, we open ourselves to the boundless blessings God has in store. May we exemplify the power of persistent prayer, both in our personal lives and in our ministry, reflecting the character of our Savior to a world in need.

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PEOPLE OF THE BOOK

FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP: POWER OF PERSISTENT PRAYER

“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” (Jeremiah 33:3, KJV)

ABSTRACT

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