Luke 22, Part 3

Scripture: Luke 22:39-46

Observation: Jesus knows death approaches. What does He do? He prays to His Father in heaven. He is honest in asking God to remove this cup from Him; He'd rather not have to go thru this if there's any other way. But Jesus also knows it is not His will that must be done but the Father's. He realizes that, as a man this will be difficult, but as God it must be done. He accepts this truth and leans on the Father. In response, an angel is sent who gives Jesus strength. Jesus is not alone at this time. Jesus prays even more intensely, till sweat becomes like great drops of blood (v.44). But instead of finding His disciples doing the same, He finds them sleeping. Jesus tells them to pray, lest they fall into temptation.

Application: Not everything God asks of us is easy or pleasant. Some things are difficult, others painful. Yet we have chosen to submit to His will, knowing that God can see the full picture. We can only see and experience the moment, but God has a bigger plan to accomplish. Our suffering is never in vain. There is a purpose, even if we can't see it yet.

Prayer: Father, it would seem that living a life that is pure and dedicated to You would be trouble free, because You're a gracious and loving God. But the enemy won't allow our lives to be pleasant. He attacks us daily, either directly or indirectly, subtly or full force. Still, You provide the strength needed to get me through the trials. I put my life in Your hands. There I know I'm safe. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.