THE POWER OF IMPORTUNITY IN PRAYER
JANUARY 24, 2026
TEXT: “And shall not God avenge His own elect, which cry day and night unto Him? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily.” (Luke 18:7–8)
Jesus shared the parable of a widow who kept coming to an unjust judge, asking for justice. Though the judge did not fear God or respect people, her persistence moved him to act. Jesus used this story to teach us that if persistence can move an unrighteous judge, how much more will our loving and righteous God answer His children who cry to Him continually?
Importunity in prayer means refusing to quit, holding on in faith, and trusting God’s timing, even when answers seem delayed.
I.M.P.O.R.T.U.N.I.T.Y
I – Insist: Keep coming to God; don’t take delay as denial. Luke 18:1; Isaiah 62:6–7
M – Maintain: Stay consistent in prayer. 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Colossians 4:2
P – Persist: Do not give up when challenges arise. Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 10:36
O – Obey: Pray according to God’s will and His Word. 1 John 5:14; John 15:7
R – Rejoice: Praise God even before the answer comes. Philippians 4:6; Habakkuk 3:17–18
T – Trust: Believe God’s timing and His wisdom. Proverbs 3:5–6; Ecclesiastes 3:11
U – Unrelenting: Pray boldly and confidently. Hebrews 4:16; Ephesians 6:18
N – Nurture: Use waiting seasons to grow spiritually. Romans 5:3–4; James 1:3–4
I – Intercede: Pray for others, not only yourself. 1 Timothy 2:1; Ezekiel 22:30
T – Testify: Share what God has done to encourage others. Psalm 66:16; Revelation 12:11
Y – Yield::Surrender the outcome fully to God. Matthew 26:39; Romans 12:1
I.N.
I – Immerse: Enter God’s presence with your whole heart. Psalm 100:4; Psalm 63:1
N – Never tire: Keep praying day and night. Luke 18:7; Ephesians 6:18
P.R.A.Y.E.R
P – Petition: Bring your requests clearly to God. Philippians 4:6; Matthew 7:7
R – Reflect: Meditate on God’s promises while praying. Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:105
A – Ask boldly: Come to God with faith and confidence. Hebrews 11:6; Mark 11:24
Y – Yield your heart: Allow God to shape your desires. Psalm 37:4; Ezekiel 36:26
E – Expectantly: Watch and wait with hope. Habakkuk 2:3; Psalm 130:5
R – Respond: Obey what God tells you to do. James 1:22; John 14:21
In conclusion, importunity in prayer teaches us not to quit, not to doubt, and not to lose heart. God is faithful, attentive, and just. When we pray persistently—with faith, obedience, and surrender—we position ourselves to experience His power and intervention. Remember, God is never tired of hearing from His children. Keep pressing, keep trusting, and keep praying—your answer will come in His perfect time.
SEARCHLIGHT: Persistent prayer works.
Press on, trust God, and never quit— He always responds to those who seek Him faithfully.
PRAYER: Father, teach me to pray with persistence, faith, and trust. Help me not to lose heart in waiting, but to remain steadfast, confident that You hear and answer my prayers. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
BIBLE READING: Leviticus 5-7, | Romans 4
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
