Text: Genesis 18:25 KJV
Further Reading: Genesis 18:24-33
That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
Genesis 18:25
MESSAGE
In the gospel of Matthew chapter 7:7, the Bible gave us three channels by which we can receive through prayer. The first is the simple asking that is required to get what we want from God. The other is to seek, which is to look for the blessing through the word of God and active prayer. And third is to knock, this is the greatest form of prayer which is usually expressed at the level of intercession.
Knocking requires patience and importunity, some answers to prayer may certainly not come by asking or seeking but by a persistent knocking at the door of heaven until the blessing is secured.
Knocking is a great test of spiritual character and maturity. Some knock at a door once but others keep knocking until they prevailed upon God to secure the desired blessing.
The Lord told us the story of a helpless widow who desired to be avenged for her adversary at the hand of a wicked city judge. Her persistent knocking at the gate of this judge did yield the result. But the Lord gave us the promise that God will speedily come to the aid of His children who cry to Him night and day (Luke 18:-7).
Another story the Lord told was that of a friend who had a visitor late in the night and had nothing to give him. He went to his friend for help but because the time was odd he would not come out, the man kept on knocking and asking until the friend had to come out and give him the bread he required. This is persistence that cannot be denied (Luke 11:5-8)
God is not a wicked judge nor an unkind friend, but a loving Father who desired that we pray with such persistence and confidence in Him. Importunity in prayer represents our total dependence and lack of alternatives. Total trust in God that says, God is my only hope and I keep knocking until he answers.
Looking closely at our reading of the day, you will see the importunity of Abraham, he would not let God go. He kept on bargaining with God from 50 to 10. Abraham persisted in his request, he kept on knocking to see if Sodom can be spared. This ability to stay with God is never denied God’s blessing, you must not give up easily in the place of prayer because God will answer.
Have you been knocking on a door and it has not opened? Keep faith in God who will come speedily to help and give you your desired answer. Do not give up, God is on the throne and He is working out all things together for your good.
REFLECTION
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
Luke 11:13
God is far better than our earthly parents and He will give the best to those who are patient and persistent in asking Him for His blessings.
PRAYER
Father, please help me to be patient and persistent in the place of prayer.
