Luke 11:8

I say vnto you, Though he will not rise, and giue him, because he is his friend: yet because of his importunitie, hee will rise and giue him as many as he needeth. Luke 11:8 (KJV)

This verse belongs to the parable that Jesus tells his disciples, commonly called the “Friend at Midnight” or the “Importunate Friend” parable, recorded in Luke 11:5‑8. In the story a man receives an unexpected visitor late at night and, because he has nothing to offer, goes to a friend’s house asking for three loaves of bread. The friend inside replies, “Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee,” showing his initial reluctance.

Despite the refusal, the petitioner keeps knocking and persistently explains his urgent need, saying he has nothing to set before his guest. Because of this importunity the reluctant friend finally gets up and provides the bread, not because they are close friends but because of the petitioner’s persistence. Jesus uses this illustration to teach a lesson about prayer: if a human friend will respond to persistent requests, how much more will God, who is loving and compassionate, answer the prayers of His children.

The man at the door represents believers who come to God in prayer, seeking His provision and help. The friend inside the house is a human example of reluctance, not a depiction of God’s character; God is infinitely more responsive than the reluctant human. The parable therefore encourages believers to be persistent in their prayers and not lose heart when answers seem delayed. It affirms that God hears and responds to the persistent prayers of His children according to His perfect timing and wisdom. In summary, Luke 11:5‑8 underscores the importance of persistent prayer, urging believers to approach God confidently, knowing He is attentive to their requests and will answer in His way and timing.