A Passage for the Preacher

[Gregory Huggins Jr]

Matthew 26:39--Matthew 26:39

 

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.