Lessons on Faith, Humility, and Dependence on God

“Will not God grant justice to His elect who cry out to Him day and night?” (Luke 18:7)

Luke 18 presents a series of teachings that emphasize faith, humility, and total dependence on God for salvation and life in His kingdom. It begins with a parable about persistent prayer (vv. 1–8), showing that faith is not passive but steadfastly cries out to the Lord, trusting His justice and mercy. Unlike the unjust judge, God is not reluctant to respond to His people—He delights in answering those who trust Him.

The next parable (vv. 9–14) contrasts a self-righteous Pharisee and a humble tax collector. The Pharisee approaches God with pride, boasting in his own efforts, while the tax collector acknowledges his unworthiness and pleads for mercy. Jesus declares that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, is the one justified before God, highlighting that entrance into the kingdom comes through humility, not self-reliance.

Jesus then blesses children brought to Him, affirming that the kingdom belongs to those who come with childlike trust (vv. 15–17). This is followed by the account of the rich young ruler (vv. 18–30), whose confidence in his moral achievements is shattered when Jesus exposes the true allegiance of his heart—his wealth. His sorrowful departure illustrates that reliance on earthly possessions, rather than on Christ alone, is a great barrier to salvation. Yet, Jesus reassures His disciples that for those who surrender everything to follow Him, there is an eternal reward beyond comparison.

The chapter also records Jesus’ final prediction of His suffering and resurrection (vv. 31–34), emphasizing that salvation is accomplished through His atoning work, not human merit. The disciples fail to grasp this truth, highlighting the necessity of divine illumination. Finally, the healing of a blind beggar (vv. 35–43) illustrates that spiritual sight is granted to those who cry out in faith. The man’s persistent plea for mercy is met with immediate healing, demonstrating that God responds to those who recognize their need and trust in Him alone.

The overarching lesson of Luke 18 is clear: faith, humility, and total dependence on Christ—not self-sufficiency—are the keys to entering and living in the kingdom of God.

Personalized Journal Entry in the Holy Spirit’s Voice

Cry out to Me, for I am not like the unjust judge who delays in granting justice. My ear is always open to the cries of My children, and I will act swiftly to bring about righteousness. Do not grow weary in prayer, but persist in faith, for I am faithful to respond. The humble will be exalted, and the proud will be brought low, for I do not look upon outward righteousness but the posture of the heart.

Come to Me as a child—trusting, dependent, without pride in your own efforts. The kingdom belongs to those who forsake self-reliance and rest fully in My provision. Those who trust in their own goodness will walk away empty, but those who acknowledge their need will find abundance in Me. I see the heart’s true allegiance, and where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Release the things that bind you, for nothing in this world compares to the life I give.

I go before you, fulfilling all that was written. My suffering is not defeat but the means by which I have secured eternal life for you. Though the eyes of many are blinded, I grant sight to those who call upon Me in faith. Like the blind man on the roadside, lift your voice and do not be silenced. Call upon Me, and I will restore your sight—both in the natural and in the depths of your soul. Follow Me, and you will see My glory.

(Luke 18:1,7-8,14,16-17,22,27,31-34,38,42-43 woven together)

My Prayer

Father, I stand in awe of the grace You lavish on those who come to You in humility and faith. You are not distant or indifferent like the unjust judge, but near to those who call upon You. I rest in the assurance that You hear every cry, and in Your perfect timing, You answer.

Thank You that my righteousness is not found in what I do but in Christ alone. I refuse to cling to my own efforts, my own wisdom, or the fleeting securities of this world. Instead, I yield everything to You, trusting that in Christ, I already have more than enough.

Let my heart be as a child’s—free from the burdens of self-reliance, resting in the joy of belonging to You. And like the blind man who cried out, I will not be silenced in my pursuit of You. I see, because You have opened my eyes. I follow, because You have called me. I rejoice, because Your kingdom is my home.

Amen.

Image Intent: A single lantern shining in the dark, symbolizing persistent prayer and faith that endures through the night.

(Grace and Truth Study Bible insights credited. Image credit: Unsplash.)