Prayer: It's Simply Rebellion

Normally when we think of rebellion it's not good. The mere thought of it brings images of children, friends or co-workers, who are acting out in some negative way. Most of the time it involves distorted facial expressions, physical gestures and unspeakable language. But is it possible that there is an aspect of rebellion that is good? Jesus thought so. In Luke 18 He introduces a woman who faces an adversary and comes to a judge asking him to avenge her. If you remember the story you know the judge refuses to do so but finally grants the request because this little lady would not give up. In essence she refused to accept things the way they were because she believed her situation could and would change. Jesus compared her experience to petitionary prayer. Thus He said, "men ought always to pray and not faint." Is it possible that prayer can be considered rebellion? One author defines is as such by stating, "It is in essence, rebellion-rebellion against the world in its fallenness, the absolute and undying refusal to accept as normal what is pervasively abnormal. It is, in this its negative aspect, the refusal of every agenda, every scheme, every interpretation that is at odds with the norm as originally established by God." This kind of praying is based on the premise that God can change things; life can be otherwise and it ought to be. With this in mind why not face your adversary by taking your liberty and doing some rebellious praying.