The Better Gift

…He will get up and give you whatever you need because of your shameless persistence.

Luke 11:8 NLT

I could smell them immediately as I walked in the kitchen! Sitting on the counter were two big loaves of bread fresh out of the oven. The aroma in the kitchen was amazing and I couldn’t wait to taste them!

What motivates you to the point of being shamelessly persistent? Is it a friend in need, your own welfare, your children, your parents, or a just cause?

Or is it a fresh baked loaf of bread still steaming from the oven?

In Luke 11:5-13, Jesus points out many people will stoop to shameless persistence to help out a friend over bread…

But I tell you this–though he won’t do it for friendship’s sake, if you keep knocking long enough, he will get up and give you whatever you need because of your shameless persistence (Luke 11:8 NLT). 

Persistence receives a response.

Then Jesus says…

So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him (Luke 11:13 NLT).

The Lord is merciful and gives me my basic needs when I ask.

But how often do I ask for the salvation for another or the gift of the Holy Spirit?

I don’t ask enough.

I found that convicting.

There are people that I know who need to know Jesus. They are trapped in a sin lifestyle, needing to be set free and find peace.

Jesus is teaching me to ask for the better gift.

Father, in the quiet of my heart, You speak to me whispering, “Child, spend your time in prayer asking for the more important gifts such as salvation and the Holy Spirit to be given to your loved ones.” Lord, lead me to pray for those whose hearts are ready to receive You. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis