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There are several instructive features in our Saviour's prayer in his hour of
trial. It was lonely prayer. He withdrew even from his three favoured disciples.
Believer, be much in solitary prayer, especially in times of trial. Family
prayer, social prayer, prayer in the Church, will not suffice, these are very
precious, but the best beaten spice will smoke in your censer in your private
devotions, where no ear hears but God's.
It was humble prayer. Luke says he knelt, but another evangelist says he "fell
on his face. " Where, then, must be THY place, thou humble servant of the great
Master? What dust and ashes should cover thy head! Humility gives us good
foot-hold in prayer. There is no hope of prevalence with God unless we abase
ourselves that he may exalt us in due time.
It was filial prayer. "Abba, Father." You will find it a stronghold in the day
of trial to plead your adoption. You have no rights as a subject, you have
forfeited them by your treason; but nothing can forfeit a child's right to a
father's protection. Be not afraid to say, "My Father, hear my cry. "
Observe that it was persevering prayer. He prayed three times. Cease not until
you prevail. Be as the importunate widow, whose continual coming earned what her
first supplication could not win. Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with
thanksgiving.
Lastly, it was the prayer of resignation. "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as
thou wilt." Yield, and God yields. Let it be as God wills, and God will
determine for the best. Be thou content to leave thy prayer in his hands, who
knows when to give, and how to give, and what to give, and what to withhold. So
pleading, earnestly, importunately, yet with humility and resignation, thou
shalt surely prevail.
"And he went a little farther, and fell on his face,
and prayed." - Matthew 26:39
See Also:
Daily Devotional: Today With Jesus
Daily Devotional: My Utmost for His Highest
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