Prayer of Preparation
There are many truths that may be gleaned from the following verses in Luke. Some of these truths may be used to prepare us as we step into this day.
(NASB) Luke 22:39 “And He came out and proceeded as was His custom to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples also followed Him.”
1-Jesus’ custom – to pray in a secluded, quiet place – do you have such a place?
(NASB) Luke 22:40 “When He arrived at the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you may not enter into temptation.’ ”
2-Jesus warned His disciples and told them how to pray – do you listen to the warnings God gives in and through His word, the Holy Bible?
(NASB) Luke 22:41 “And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and began to pray,”
3-Jesus knelt to pray – how do you approach the holy God of the Bible?
(NASB) Luke 22:42 “saying, ‘Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.’ ”
4-Jesus’ prayer became one of submission to His Father’s will – where do you need to submit to God and His ways?
(NASB) Luke 22:43 “Now an angel from heaven appeared to Him, strengthening Him.”
5-On whom or what do you rely to strengthen you to do God’s will in God’s timing, is it God Himself?
(NASB) Luke 22:44 “And being in agony He was praying very fervently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling down upon the ground.”
6-Jesus’ prayer involved His whole being – are your prayers half-hearted or whole-hearted?
(NASB) Luke 22:45 “When He rose from prayer, He came to the disciples and found them sleeping from sorrow.”
7-Jesus’ prayer life prepared Him for God’s will – how prepared are you to do God’s will?
Jesus fought His battle on His knees in the Garden and won…then and there! His absolute submission to His Father’s will gave Him the victory as He suffered (in your place and mine for our sins).
Where do you fight your battles?