Too Busy Not to Pray by Bill Hybels
Week 7: Chapter 6 — The Persistent Widow
Read Chapter 6 of Too Busy Not to Pray. Key passage: Luke 18:1–8 (the parable of the persistent widow).
Previewing Week 7 of Too Busy Not to Pray
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 13-week guide when you’re ready.
Hybels uses Jesus' own parable to tackle one of the most discouraging experiences in any prayer life: praying and praying and seemingly hearing nothing.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Luke tells us Jesus told this parable specifically so that his disciples would 'always pray and not give up' (Luke 18:1). What does it say about human nature — and about prayer — that Jesus felt this teaching was necessary?
2.The widow in the parable wins her case not because she is powerful or deserving but because she is persistent. What does Hybels say this teaches us about how God responds to our repeated, stubborn prayers?
3.Hybels is careful to clarify that God is not like the unjust judge — reluctant and self-interested. If God is a loving Father, why does persistence in prayer matter? What is happening in us, or between us and God, when we keep returning to him with the same request?