Jesus taught us about the need for constant and persistent prayer.
He told a story of a widow that had been harmed. The judge dealing with the case was a bad guy, godless and held contempt for everyone. The widow came to him over and over pleading her case. The judge ignored her at first, but finally relented and agreed to find justice for her.
Then the Lord said, “Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don’t you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off”? – Luke 18:6-7
The apostle Paul repeats this to the Thessalonians in his first letter to them.
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Jesus prayed often and persistently. He seemed to be in constant contact with the Father.
He offers a beautiful prayer for the length of chapter 17 in the gospel of John. Jesus prays to be glorified for the purpose of returning the glory back to the Father. He prays for his disciples. Then, he offers this prayer for you and me.
“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony” – John 17:20
Wow…how does that make you feel? That Jesus prayed for you and me. He was concerned enough for us to bring his concerns to the Father on our behalf nearly 2,000 years ago. That’s mind-blowing for me!
So Jesus prayed. Did he need to? Jesus as one of the three Godhead or Triune God (three in one) living as a man would have a desire to communicate with the Father. He seemed to love to be in communication with God the Father.
Do you have someone you look forward to seeing again? When I travel away from home, I get excited to return when I know the trip is coming to an end. No matter how long the trip is, I seem to be able to sense the end coming. As I approach my street and make the turn toward my home, I get excited to see my family. I love to be home.
Jesus seemed to have this anticipation as well. He seemed enthusiastic to meet with the Father. He did this often and sometimes for long periods of time. We can learn much from Jesus prayer habits.
- Pray often and persistently
- Pray sincerely, from the heart
- Pray with others and alone
- Be willing to pray aloud (even if you’re alone)
- Pray for his will
Lastly, pray in Jesus’ name.
“You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.” – John 14:13
Thank you, Jesus that you gave us your life and these lessons in how to communicate with you. Amen
Richard Bahr 