“Don't Forget to Pray”

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

BIBLE READING: Luke 5-6

“But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.” (Luke 5.16)
“In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.” (Luke 6.12)

These verses highlight Jesus’ intentionality when it came to prayer. He was never “too busy” or thoughtless of his prayer time. In fact, he chose to steal away when he was exceptionally in demand (Luke 5.15) or overwhelmed with his schedule (Luke 6.19).

Jesus’ example in prayer is especially profound considering his statement in Luke 4.43: “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God… for I was sent for this purpose.” If this was his purpose, then why remove himself from the people to pray? Because it gave him clarity as he reconnected with the Father (see Luke 22.42).  

There are two critical things Jesus did when it came to prayer:

He made time. The demand for Jesus did not alter his priority. He was going to do the will of the Father (Luke 2.49; 4.43; John 6.38), and that meant he could not lose his connection to God. He would often get up early (Mark 1.35) or stay up late (Luke 6.12) to ensure he had quality time with the Father.

When we were dating, Kelsey and I would sometimes stay up late talking. I almost always struggled to function the next day, but I didn’t care because it was time well-spent with the one I loved. When someone is important to us, we will make time for them.  

He went away. Not just to the next room… Luke tells us he would go to “desolate” places (Luke 6.12). Jesus frequently left everyone and everything to be with the One he valued the most.

There are times for those quick, in-the-moment prayers, but to really connect with God we need to reduce the distractions. Think about what the relationship with your spouse would look like if you only talked to them when things were difficult or when others were around. It would be impossible to build intimacy or demonstrate value. Sometimes we just need to get away and spend alone time with God.

Life can be hectic. We may feel like we’ve got a million things demanding our attention. Making time or getting away may seem impossible. Sometimes we divide our attention to try and get more done… but we must never neglect to pray. It is the most valuable thing God has given to believers. Jesus demonstrates that prayers offers great confidence and peace as we develop a deeper, more intentional relationship with our Father.

“…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understand will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4.6-7)

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