And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. Luke 22:44 (NIV)
As the time now drew nearer, he knew the road between him and the salvation of man wouldn?t be a smooth one to ride. He became discouraged and his flesh cried out. The flesh always seeks to gratify itself, rather than seeking out the will of God.
Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 (NIV)
When we become born again we become new creatures in Christ. However our flesh is constantly crying out and trying to take over, but as we become more imbued by the Holy Spirit (through prayer) and study the word on a daily basis, we grow in strength and are more able to discern between spiritual and carnal things and consequently conform to the spiritual things which bring life and not carnal things that lead to death.
And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. Luke 22:44 (NIV)
However, your victory depends on your response. In this instance we see Jesus praying more fervently because he knew through prayer he would be strengthened, renewed and his will would be realigned with his fathers will in heaven.
Prayer allows us to focus on the power of God rather than our hour of agony.
As Christians when we face challenges that put us in agony we should gather our strength through prayer.
Sadly we see the results of what happens when we don?t pray in verse 45
When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. Luke 22:45 (NIV)
Why are you sleeping?" he asked them. "Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. Luke 22:46 (NIV)
What amazes me about this verse is that through prayer Jesus not only had strength to overcome his own storm, God also supplied him with enough to share with his disciples and encourage them towards their victory.
My prayer for you is that as you pray more fervently during the stormy seasons, you?re not only filled with enough strength to overcome your battles but enough to encourage others around you.
Mary Adeagbo