Read Matthew 26:36-46
Discover
1. What emotions did Jesus feel when He went away to pray (verses 37-38)?
2. How did His faithfulness to prayer contrast with the disciples’ faithfulness in this situation?
3. What phrases did Jesus repeat in His prayers?
Respond
A few weeks ago, we read about Jesus’ faithfulness in prayer at the height of His ministry. Today we see His faithfulness in prayer just before His darkest moment. While He prayed, His disciples slept. This triggered a warning: “Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation.”
Faithful prayer is the answer in all situations. Whether life is good or hard, God is always there to listen and help. And the true test of trust is being able to say in all things, “Not my will, but yours be done.” When we approach prayer faithfully in this way, God fills us with peace, courage, and endurance to face whatever happens next.
Would you describe your prayer life as faithful, or do you tend to pray only in certain circumstances? What step can you take today to develop a faithful habit of prayer? Maybe set your alarm 15 minutes earlier or use your commute time to talk with God? Pray through what comes to mind, and share your next step with a friend for accountability.
Want to go deeper? Read about a simple way to pray every day, as modeled by Martin Luther.
*TPCC does not necessarily endorse all “Want to go deeper” sources. They are simply meant to be a helpful tool.