Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

March 22– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“(Jesus) went a little farther and fell on his face and prayed.” 

—Matthew 26:39

 

There are several things to learn from our Savior’s prayer in his hour of trial. The first is that his prayer was lonely prayer; he withdrew even from his three favored disciples. In the same way, we should pray in secret– especially in times of trial. Family prayer, social prayer, prayer in the Church, are precious, but they are not enough.

Secondly, it was humble prayer. Luke says that he knelt down, but Matthew says he “fell on his face,” and you must do the same. If you are a humble servant of the great Master, then dust and ashes should cover your head! Be humble before him, and he will exalt you in due time.

Next, we notice that his prayer was tender and loving. He prayed to his “Abba, Father”—literally, his “Daddy.” In the day of your trial, you will find great strength if you remember your adoption and declare your sonship. You have no rights before God except for those granted to you as a son.

We also notice that his prayer was persevering. He prayed three times. Don’t stop until you prevail. Be just like the persistent widow whose continual coming earned what she failed to receive the first time.

And then, lastly, it was the prayer of resignation. He said, “Nevertheless, [Father], not as I will, but as you will.” Let it be as God wills, and God will determine for the best; he knows when and how and what to give and what to withhold; so, pray pleadingly, earnestly, and persistently yet with humility and resignation, and you will surely prevail with God! [M&E]