What Jesus Did! 'Never Give Up' — Luke 18:1

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.
— Luke 18:1 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus had two points he wanted to impress on the hearts of his disciples. First, he wanted them to be dedicated to prayer and have it as a consistent part of their lives. Second, he wanted them to know that they must never give up, no matter what the circumstances might be. While Jesus made his points clear, why did he feel the need to tell a story? The answer is pretty straightforward. Stories help us remember. They connect to a different place in our hearts and in our heads rather than just being a statement of the main points. Also, Jesus used stories from everyday experience so that the sight or experience of something similar would bring his teaching back into the forefront of the disciples' thoughts — and ours. So the next time you hear about a Bible teacher or preacher who tells too many stories, remind the folks that Jesus was a master storyteller!

Today's Prayer

Father, thank you for Jesus' ability to put your truth into everyday stories. Thank you for the truths that the stories carry and the power that they have in our memories. Thank you for giving so much of your truth in Scripture in the form of stories. Most of all, dear Father, help me never to give up as I seek your will, your presence, and your help through prayer. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Colossians 4:2-3
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
  • Ephesians 1:15-20

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 18:1 NLT — One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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