March 22, Morning

C. H. Spurgeon · Modern retelling

"And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed." — Matthew 26:39 · KJV

There are several instructive features in our Savior's prayer in His hour of trial. It was lonely prayer: He withdrew even from His three favored 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 your place, humble servant of the great Master? What dust and ashes should cover your head! Humility gives us good foothold in prayer; there is no hope of prevailing 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 forfeited them by your treason; but nothing can forfeit a child's right to a father's protection. Do not be afraid to say, "My Father, hear my cry." Observe that it was persevering prayer: He prayed three times. Do not cease until you prevail. Be like the importunate widow, whose continual coming won what her first request could not. 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 decide for the best. Be content to leave your prayer in His hands, who knows when to give, and how, and what to give, and what to withhold. Pleading thus — earnestly, importunately, yet with humility and resignation — you shall surely prevail.