This blog unpacks Pastor Caleb Culver’s Sermon from September 22, 2024

Have you ever found yourself in a season of unanswered prayer? You're not alone.

LET’S BREAK IT DOWN:

But what if these periods of delay aren't just empty spaces, but rather moments that hinge on whether our faith will be strengthened or depleted?

In the parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), Jesus tells of a widow who repeatedly approaches an unjust judge, seeking justice. Despite the judge's initial indifference, her persistence eventually wears him down, and he grants her request.

At first glance, this parable might suggest that we should pester or beg God until He gives in to our demands. But Jesus uses this story to draw a contrast, not a comparison. If even an uncaring, unjust judge eventually responds, how much more will our loving Heavenly Father hear and answer His children?

Unlike the unjust judge, God is not reluctant to answer us. He's not ignoring us or playing hard to get. Instead, He operates on a different timeline—one that often feels painfully slow to us but is perfectly aligned with His purposes.

God has two speeds: slow and suddenly.

The Israelites waited 400 years for deliverance from Egypt.

They waited 1,700 years for their Messiah.

And now, we're approaching the 2,000-year mark awaiting Christ's return.

Yet, when God moves, it's often in an instant.

Walls fall, seas part and the Spirit descends like a rushing wind.

In the midst of delay, it's easy for doubt and accusation to creep into our hearts. We might find ourselves asking, "God, do you really care? Are you even listening?" This is when it’s easy to give up on our prayer.

But Jesus poses an important question at the end of the parable: "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"

The justice is sure, the answer is coming—the real question is, will we wait for it with patience and trust?

It's not about mustering up enough belief or desire for a specific outcome. Rather, faith is the trust and intimacy we have with God that affects our beliefs.

It's less about being convinced we'll get what we ask for and more about being convinced of the character of the One we're asking.

So how do we pray in the delay?

We remember who we're praying to, and we recall what He's already done.

In Daniel 9, we see Daniel praying based on God's promises, beginning with praise and acknowledgment of God's faithfulness. The response from heaven is swift and affirming: "At the beginning of your pleas for mercy, a word went out...for you are greatly loved."

This truth—that we are greatly loved by a Father who delights in His children—is what sustains us through seasons of persevering prayer.

God keeps His promises, even when the journey looks different than we expect.

As we face seasons of delay in our own lives, let's remember:

1. God is not an unjust judge but a loving Father who hears us.

2. Our faith is rooted in who God is, not in our ability to believe hard enough.

3. We are greatly loved, and our prayers have weight in heaven.

4. God keeps His promises, even when His timing differs from ours.

5. We can praise God in advance, trusting His faithfulness.

In your current season of waiting, will you choose to trust? Will you sit at Jesus' feet, ministering to Him even with unanswered prayers? Will you praise Him even in a dry season, believing He is working behind the scenes?

The promise is sure, the breakthrough is coming.

The question is: when the answer arrives, will He find faith in you?

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:

Day 1: The Power of Persevering Prayer

Reading: Luke 18:1-8

Devotional: Jesus teaches us about the importance of persistent prayer through the parable of the persistent widow. As we read this passage, let's reflect on our own prayer lives. Are we quick to give up when answers don't come immediately? Remember, God is not an unjust judge who needs to be worn down, but a loving Father who delights in our prayers. Today, commit to persevering in prayer, trusting in God's perfect timing and loving nature. Ask Him to strengthen your faith during times of waiting and to help you see His work even in the delays.

Day 2: Choosing the Better Portion

Reading: Luke 10:38-42

Devotional: The story of Mary and Martha reminds us of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with Jesus above all else. In our busy lives, it's easy to become "distracted with much serving" like Martha. Today, challenge yourself to sit at Jesus' feet like Mary did. Spend time in His presence, listening to His words and allowing His love to fill you. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be letting anxiety or busyness pull you away from your "point of reference"—your relationship with Christ. Ask God to help you choose the "better portion" that cannot be taken away.

Day 3: The Father's Heart

Reading: Luke 11:1-13

Devotional: Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray, emphasizing the fatherhood of God. As you read this passage, meditate on what it means to approach God as "Father." How does this change your perspective on prayer? Notice how Jesus highlights God's desire to give good gifts to His children. Today, spend time thanking God for His fatherly love and care. Bring your needs before Him with confidence, knowing that He delights in providing for you. Ask Him to deepen your trust in His goodness and perfect will for your life.

Day 4: Faith in the Face of Delay

Reading: Daniel 9:1-23

Devotional: Daniel's prayer demonstrates powerful faith and persistence in the face of seemingly unanswered promises. Notice how he begins by affirming God's character and faithfulness. When we face delays or disappointments, it's crucial to remind ourselves of who God is and what He has done. Today, write down some of God's attributes and past faithfulness in your life. Use these as a foundation for your prayers, especially in areas where you're still waiting for breakthrough. Remember that you are "greatly loved" by God, and He hears your prayers the moment you begin to speak.

Day 5: Singing in the Barren Places

Reading: Isaiah 54:1-5

Devotional: This passage calls us to rejoice and expand our expectations even in times of barrenness or unfulfilled promises. It's a powerful reminder that God often works in ways we don't expect and that His plans are greater than our immediate circumstances. Today, identify an area in your life where you feel "barren" or are still waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled. Choose to praise God in advance for His faithfulness. Write a prayer or even a song of thanksgiving for what God will do. Ask Him to expand your faith and vision, and to help you trust in His perfect timing and good plans for your life.