If You Persist, He Will Not Resist! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Luke 18:1 – Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart.
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Introduction
Persistence in faith and prayer is a fundamental principle in walking with God. Many start their spiritual journey with great enthusiasm, but only those who persist in faith, prayer, and obedience truly experience the fullness of God’s promises. The Lord desires that His people remain steadfast and unwavering, trusting in His faithfulness to answer prayers. This teaching emphasizes the importance of persistence and the blessings that follow when believers refuse to give up.
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God Rewards Those Who Persist in Faith
Hebrews 11:6 – But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Faith that persists through trials and challenges is rewarded by God. When believers stand firm in prayer, refusing to be swayed by doubt or circumstances, they open the door to divine intervention. The Lord hears and answers the cries of those who trust in Him.
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Do Not Be Like Those Who Pray in Vain
Matthew 6:7 – And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Many people pray without faith, uttering words without truly believing in God’s ability to answer. Their prayers become mere rituals with no spiritual impact. The Lord desires heartfelt prayers that are rooted in trust and expectation, not mere recitations without conviction.
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Overcoming Doubt and Fear Through Persistence
James 1:6-7 – But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord.
Doubt and fear are the greatest enemies of faith. When believers waver between trusting God and succumbing to fear, they hinder their prayers from being answered. The key to victory is unwavering persistence in God’s promises.
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God Answers Those Who Do Not Give Up
Luke 11:9-10 – So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Jesus taught that persistence in prayer leads to results. Those who continue to ask, seek, and knock will receive, find, and see doors opened. God is faithful to answer those who diligently pursue Him.
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Do Not Look to the World for Answers
Psalm 118:8 – It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.
The world offers false solutions that lead to disappointment. Many turn to human leaders, institutions, and philosophies instead of seeking God. True wisdom and provision come from the Lord alone, and those who persist in trusting Him will never be put to shame.
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Summary
God desires persistent faith in His people. When believers continue steadfast in prayer and trust, they experience divine breakthroughs. The world is full of distractions and false hopes, but those who place their confidence in God will see His power at work.
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Conclusion
Persistence in prayer and faith is the key to experiencing God’s best. The Lord does not resist those who diligently seek Him. Many people give up too soon and miss out on God’s blessings, but those who endure will see the fulfillment of His promises.
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Call to Action
Remain steadfast in your faith. Continue in prayer without ceasing. Trust in God’s timing and plan for your life. Do not waver between two opinions, but stand firm in the knowledge that God hears and answers those who persist.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Galatians 6:9 – And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Your persistence will not be in vain. God is faithful to reward those who trust Him. Keep pressing forward in faith, knowing that His promises are sure.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Lord Jesus, come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior, and lead me in Your ways. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and strengthen me to persist in faith. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
