He was called Jesus

And He is still called Jesus.

He listens when speak his name.

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13).

Alone with God

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went to a desolate place and there he prayed (Mark 1:35).

This same Jesus says, “Follow me (Mark 1:17).”

He calls us to pray in quiet, lonely places. No other friend, no relatives, just you. And God.

 

Want to be like Jesus?

Jesus spent a lot of time praying. He would withdraw to desolate places and pray. . . . all night he continued in prayer to God (Luke 5:16; 6:12).

Make prayer a priority.

 

Jesus prayed for children

Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid hands on them (from Matthew 19:13-15).

If you want to be like Jesus, pray for children.

How Jesus Prayed

Jesus was greatly distressed and troubled because He knew the cross was coming. In this sorrow, He prayed. “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will (from Mark 14:33-36).”

As we remember Jesus’ death—and resurrection!—remember to pray with faith and surrender.

Prayers like that lead to victory.

Jesus, our Sacrifice

“Sin separates man from the holy God . . . communion with God is possible only for those who approach him through an appropriate sacrifice.”*

That’s why we pray in the name of Jesus.

*General Editors: Michael Rydelnik, Michael Vanlaningham, The Moody Bible Commentary, p. 182.

Why can we approach God?

First, Solomon built the temple. Next, the entire community sacrificed countless animals (1 Kings 6:38; 8:5). “In these sacrifices the worshiper expressed his inferiority to God and unworthiness to approach Him without due recognition of his sin.”*

Then Solomon prayed (1 Kings 8:12).

We pray because Jesus sacrificed his life for us.

*General Editors: Michael Rydelnik and Michael Vanlaningham, The Moody Bible Commentary, p. 180-181.

 

 

Praying Forgiveness

When Jesus hung on the cross, unjustly condemned, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing (Luke 23:34).”

Forgive and pray like that.

What Happens When We Pray, Part 1

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13).

We pray. God saves.

Think Carefully About Jesus

When you pray, remember Jesus suffered death for us . . . and he is able to help us (Hebrews 2:9, 18).