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Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should
always pray and not give up.
Luke 18:1
I read the story many times. Today I noticed a new aspect of Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow. I realized Jesus portrayed the judge with qualities similar to narcissism—a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men (Luke 18:2).
Jesus described the judge’s callous logic when the widow persisted in requesting justice against her adversary, “Even though I don’t fear God or care about men, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out with her coming” (v. 5).
“Listen to what the unjust judge says” (v. 6), Jesus added, before contrasting it with God’s compassionate and speedy response to our requests.
And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly.” (v. 7-8a).
I can confidently approach God knowing that when I seek help, He responds quickly, and will provide justice in place of injustice—including the injustice of narcissistic abuse. My heavenly Father invites me to be persistent in my requests for wisdom, for provision, and for justice, then rest in the confidence that He hears and responds.
Father, thank You for the wisdom of Scripture to speak to my every need. Thank You for the invitation to come with my requests and for quickly responding in my best interest. Grant me grace in the meantime to trust Your timing and to trust Your mercies for the day, for "they are new every morning" (Lam.3:23). In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
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