1 Jesus also spoke a parable to them that they must always pray, and not give up, 2 saying, “There was a judge in a certain city who didn’t fear God, and didn’t respect man. 3 A widow was in that city, and she often came to him, saying, ‘Defend me from my adversary!’ 4 He wouldn’t for a while, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God, nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow bothers me, I will defend her, or else she will wear me out by her continual coming.’”

6 The Lord said, “Listen to what the unrighteous judge says. 7 Won’t God avenge his chosen ones, who are crying out to him day and night, and yet he exercises patience with them? 8 I tell you that he will avenge them quickly. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”

Luke 18:1-8 - World English Bible

In Luke 18, Jesus chose an unusual comparison to promote persistence in prayer: God and an unjust judge. The self-absorbed magistrate finally gave into the pestering widow, just for relief from her nagging. Of course, the parable broke down on the last point; by his very nature, God could not tire from constant petition. However, was the Father of Christ either unjust or mailable like the judge in the story? (Obviously not, but that question did get the attention of his audience.)

Jesus told this story for effect and to punch up his final question. Constant petition ensured faith, but could disciples remain faithful in the face of persecution? “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”

What have you asked the Lord today? How is your prayer life constant?