If you seek the Word, you will find something undeniably clear about Jesus and his ministry. All throughout the Gospels and even after, the Word describes our Lord retreating to be alone with God in prayer, and often talking with him all throughout the night.
In Luke 11, after one of those retreats, his disciples requested of him “Lord, teach us how to pray.” What better one to learn from by example then the very Son of God? Today we're sharing five important things about the way Jesus prayed. How many of these are reflected in your own prayer life?
1. He spent time alone with God
“And rising very early in the morning while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” Mark 1:35
2. He prayed for long periods of time
“In these days he [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12
3. He sought God’s glory above all else
“When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given to him.”
4. He submitted himself to the will of God
“And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his swear became like great traps of blood falling down to the ground.” Luke 22:41-44
5. He prayed and continues to pray for the strength and salvation of those he loves
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail…” Luke 22:31-32
“Consequently he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
Devoted times of conversation and supplication before God were essential to the ministry and walk of Jesus here on earth. If the perfect Son of God saw such great value in prayer, how much more we who are weak and prone to wander- servants seeking to know and become more like God?
Paul Washer puts it this way, “Jesus knew that His priority was to be in the presence of God, to seek the face of His God, to follow His God and that the greatest thing He could do for humanity is the greatest thing you can do for humanity… to seek your God.”
This week, take time to meditate over these verses and ask God how he wants to use them to strengthen, grow, and use you. Watch and see the miracles God does in your life as you submit yourself to him through prayer.
Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on how to pray for indigenous missions around the globe.
In Luke 11, after one of those retreats, his disciples requested of him “Lord, teach us how to pray.” What better one to learn from by example then the very Son of God? Today we're sharing five important things about the way Jesus prayed. How many of these are reflected in your own prayer life?
1. He spent time alone with God
“And rising very early in the morning while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” Mark 1:35
2. He prayed for long periods of time
“In these days he [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12
3. He sought God’s glory above all else
“When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given to him.”
4. He submitted himself to the will of God
“And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his swear became like great traps of blood falling down to the ground.” Luke 22:41-44
5. He prayed and continues to pray for the strength and salvation of those he loves
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail…” Luke 22:31-32
“Consequently he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25
Devoted times of conversation and supplication before God were essential to the ministry and walk of Jesus here on earth. If the perfect Son of God saw such great value in prayer, how much more we who are weak and prone to wander- servants seeking to know and become more like God?
Paul Washer puts it this way, “Jesus knew that His priority was to be in the presence of God, to seek the face of His God, to follow His God and that the greatest thing He could do for humanity is the greatest thing you can do for humanity… to seek your God.”
This week, take time to meditate over these verses and ask God how he wants to use them to strengthen, grow, and use you. Watch and see the miracles God does in your life as you submit yourself to him through prayer.
Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on how to pray for indigenous missions around the globe.