Persistence in Hope

by Rev Scott Ballment

Throughout Central Queensland and beyond, we see shrinking populations in our towns and the gradual withdrawal of services. Yet, despite the knocks and bruises, we witness the determination of God’s people to rise again and again. For those who live outside our regional centres and coastal areas, there is a grit and steadfastness that is truly exemplary. Persistence is indeed a virtue — and one much needed in our time.

We see this virtue in Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-7), which reminds us to “pray always and not lose heart.” Prayer is not about persuading God, but about strengthening our trust in Him. In a world that demands quick answers, Jesus calls us to patient, faithful, and persistent prayer.

There are many trials, and particular forms of opposition, that can tempt us to give up hope — to become discouraged or to shrink back from doing what God has called us to do. In short, we are tempted in many ways to lose heart.

When we lose heart, we relax our efforts. We cease to be watchful, prayerful, and persistent in our calling as God’s people. Yet, may we, like the widow in the parable, persist in hope — confident that God hears and answers in God's perfect time.