Doubt Yourself Before You Doubt the Lord

DEVOTION • “Will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” ‭‭(Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭7‬–8)

Read time: 2 min

When our prayers seem unanswered, we often assume God is reluctant and we are ready. But Jesus flips that assumption on its head.

In response to the disciples, Jesus tells a parable about a helpless widow facing an unjust judge—someone who cares neither for what is right nor for people. And yet, because of her persistence, even he gives in.

How much more, then, Jesus argues, will our righteous and compassionate Father answer his children—not begrudgingly, but wisely and swiftly, at just the right time?

Jesus’ sobering question at the end of the passage is what flips the script:

“When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (v.8)

The issue isn’t God’s faithfulness—it’s ours.

We trust our instincts, interests, and intentions, and doubt God’s, but the parable shows that the real obstacle in prayer isn’t God’s willingness. It’s whether we will keep trusting him and keep asking until he convinces us otherwise.

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Heavenly Father, help me doubt my own wavering faith before I ever doubt your steadfast power, wisdom, or care for me. Teach me to trust that you hear and answer in your perfect time. Amen. ❖