Pray Through Struggle
I’ve had some significant struggles in my life. I had, what I feel like, my share of suffering and pain. I can look around and quickly see others whose struggles and pain seems even more intense than my own. I’ve learned that when I’m in the midst of struggle, suffering or pain, that I can’t seem to see past it. When I look back on it now, it seems like such a short season.
I’m following the story of Jesus through the eyes of Peter as written by Mark. I can feel the intensity of Jesus’ struggle as He prays in the garden near the end of His life here on earth. He is on mission, but the physical and spiritual struggle is real. Check this out…
32 They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “Sit here while I go and pray.” 33 He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed. 34 He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
35 He went on a little farther and fell to the ground. He prayed that, if it were possible, the awful hour awaiting him might pass him by. 36 “Abba, Father,” he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
37 Then he returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? 38 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”
39 Then Jesus left them again and prayed the same prayer as before. 40 When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn’t keep their eyes open. And they didn’t know what to say. (Mark 14:32-40 NLT)
I’m learning to always pray, NOT just when I’m struggling or suffering.
I’m learning to pray when I’m thankful.
I’m learning to pray when I’m struggling.
I’m learning to pray when I’m thrilled with deep joy.
I’m learning to pray when I’m walking through pain.
I’m learning to pray first thing when I wake up.
I’m learning to pray before I go to sleep.
I’m learning to pray about EVERYTHING. His Presence, His Wisdom and His Insight are accessible to me when I pray.
Pressing On!
Dwayne