Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, “There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: ‘My rights are being violated. Protect me!’

“He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, ‘I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won’t quit badgering me, I’d better do something and see that she gets justice—otherwise I’m going to end up beaten black-and-blue by her pounding.’”

Then the Master said, “Do you hear what that judge, corrupt as he is, is saying? So what makes you think God won’t step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help? Won’t he stick up for them? I assure you, he will. He will not drag his feet. But how much of that kind of persistent faith will the Son of Man find on the earth when he returns?”

Luke 18:1-8 The Message

Wine makes you mean, beer makes you quarrelsome—
a staggering drunk is not much fun.

Quick-tempered leaders are like mad dogs—
cross them and they bite your head off.

It’s a mark of good character to avert quarrels,
but fools love to pick fights.

A farmer too lazy to plant in the spring
has nothing to harvest in the fall.

Knowing what is right is like deep water in the heart;
a wise person draws from the well within.

Lots of people claim to be loyal and loving,
but where on earth can you find one?

God-loyal people, living honest lives,
make it much easier for their children.

Leaders who know their business and care
keep a sharp eye out for the shoddy and cheap,
For who among us can be trusted
to be always diligent and honest?

Switching price tags and padding the expense account
are two things God hates.

Young people eventually reveal by their actions
if their motives are on the up and up.

Proverbs 20:1-11