Episode 18
Luke 18 - Persistence Like a Widow
Luke 18 - Humility and Pride
In this episode, I explore the powerful stories and teachings in Luke 18 that reveal what kind of attitude Jesus desires in us. From a persistent widow seeking justice, to a tax collector begging for mercy, to a rich man struggling to let go of his wealth, these moments hold deep spiritual truths. Each interaction shows how God responds not to status or self-righteousness, but to honest, humble hearts and enduring faith. Whether it’s children being welcomed or a blind man shouting to be healed, Luke 18 reminds us that the kingdom of God is upside-down—valuing the overlooked, honoring the persistent, and rewarding the truly faithful.
The Widow and the Unjust Judge
I talk about the parable of the persistent widow and what it means to pray without giving up. Jesus uses her persistence to challenge us to keep bringing our needs to God. This kind of faith isn’t about demanding results—it’s about returning to the source of justice and mercy again and again.
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector
This parable contrasts outward righteousness with inward humility. The Pharisee boasts about his religious credentials, but it’s the tax collector who humbly asks for mercy that Jesus lifts up. I reflect on how easy it is to fall into comparison and pride, and how we’re all in need of grace.
Children and the Kingdom of God
When people bring their children to Jesus, He welcomes them and says the kingdom belongs to such as these. I share why childlike faith—simple, honest, and trusting—is something we should seek, and how it stands in contrast to the adult tendency to overthink or cover up our flaws.
The Rich Ruler’s Dilemma
The rich man wanted eternal life, but couldn’t let go of his wealth. I explore how our attachment to things—whether money, status, or comfort—can stand in the way of following Jesus. It’s not about poverty for its own sake; it’s about surrender and trust.
The Blind Beggar at Jericho
A blind man cries out for healing even when others try to silence him. His persistence gets Jesus’ attention, and his faith leads to healing. This shows again how determined, sincere faith moves the heart of God.
Takeaways:
Luke 18 calls us to examine where our trust lies. Am I humble, or self-sufficient? Do I pray persistently, or give up easily? Am I willing to let go of earthly things to follow Jesus, or am I clinging to temporary security? The examples Jesus gives point to a way of living that’s honest, dependent, and eternally focused. Whether we’re struggling with pride, feeling ignored, or wrestling with what we need to surrender, the message is the same: God sees the heart. And He honors the one who comes to Him with humility, trust, and perseverance.
Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8
Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows
Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com
“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”
Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.
Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/
Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact permissions@faithlife.com. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.
By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
