May Your Will Be Done

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Matthew 26:42 “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”

Think back on the prayers you’ve prayed over the previous 3-6 months. What have you prayed for? 

If we’re honest, many of us would acknowledge that we pray for things we want. God, please heal my friend or relative so-and-so who is currently ill. Amen. Or, God, please give me some kind of sign so I know what to do in this difficult situation I’m in. Amen. 

These kinds of prayers aren’t necessarily wrong, but they don’t always follow the examples from the Scriptures. Jesus prayed that He wouldn’t have to experience death on a cross, but also acknowledged His willingness to do it saying, “…may Your will be done.” 

As pastor and author Timothy Keller has written, “It is remarkable that in all of his writings Paul’s prayers for his friends contain no appeals for change in their circumstances…[what] he most frequently prayed for his friends, was for them to know God better.”

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 26:36-46 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: Do you find yourself more regularly praying for God to accomplish your will, or for you to have the understanding and discernment to live out His will for your life? If the former, what steps can you take to pray more intentionally for God’s will to be done? 

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Are you overcommitting? Practice slowing down and living life at the pace of your soul by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that far too often I pray for my will to be accomplished. Today, I humbly pray for Your will to be done, whatever it may be. Continue to reveal Your will and purpose for my life, and provide me the wisdom and discernment to live it out well. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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