I would think most people believe in prayer at some level. This is especially true in crisis. Many people, regardless of religious affiliation, or none, are drawn to prayer in tough times.
Jesus provided instruction on prayer. One area he emphasized was persistence. In the Gospel of Luke he illustrates prayer as a person going to a friend’s house at midnight to ask for some bread. The person was in need for some munchies for some unexpected guests.
The neighbors outside lights were off. Doors were locked. No lights on inside. Of course he decides to be considerate and figure out something else. Nope! He calls out that he needs some help with food.
The friend responded, groggily, “Go away. We’re all in bed. You woke me up from a dream. I have a long day tomorrow. You may be my friend, but that is on wobbly legs right now.”
Jesus says, “But I tell you this—though he won’t do it for friendship’s sake, if you keep knocking long enough, he will get up and give you whatever you need because of your shameless persistence.” (Luke 11:8)
Jesus makes it clear. If you keep at it you’ll get what you need. This will not even be as a result of friendship, but, and I love this phrase, shameless persistence!
Shame is often seen as a negative. Shame is embarrassment for actions. Shame is guilt for something you have done, or maybe haven’t done.
Jesus says we ought to be ‘shameless in our persistence.’ We should be persistent with no regret. We should be persistent with no apology.
When you need something get persistent. Don’t be ashamed. Be clear as to the need. Be bold in the asking. Be confident in the result.
We give up way too easily. We give up on things we pray for. We give up on working toward a goal. We give up on relationships. We give up on growing. We give up on ourselves.
We need to take a page from Jesus. We need to be shamelessly persistent. Try one more time. Ask again. Extend your effort. Believe beyond your current faith. Take one more step. Ignore those who tell us to hush.
In Mark Chapter 10 there is a story of a man named Bartimaeus. He was blind. When he heard Jesus was in the area he began to cry out to Jesus. He wanted his attention. People around him told him to shut up. What did Bartimaeus do? He shouted louder (10:48). He had shameless persistence.
Jesus heard him. Jesus instructed people to bring the man to him. Jesus asked him what he wanted. He quickly and confidently said, “I want to see.” And see he did.
Shameless persistence may be perceived as rude by others. Yet if you are committed to what you need you will persist anyway.