“Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, ‘My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.'” (Matthew 26.42)
“Thy will be done.” How many times do we really mean that prayer, or even pray that prayer? Don’t we really desire in our prayers that:
“Lord, please please do what I want, what my will is, please give me what I’m asking for, what I desire, what I will.”
It is a scary proposition to ask the Lord that “His will be done.” What if His will is to take us through very difficult circumstances to deepen our faith and build character in us? What if His will is to allow our hardship to continue to teach us patience? Or to help us to better relate to others who are suffering?
And then there is this–isn’t it interesting that Jesus did not pray what today is considered a “great prayer of faith”? He did not claim His desired outcome, but rather put His fate and His prayer outcome in God’s hands. This is worth considering, for today many preachers have it backwards, removing God from the equation and placing their own will solely at the beginning, middle, and ending of their prayers.
I would submit to you that you can never go wrong in placing your faith in God’s will for your life. You may not get everything you want, but you will find God’s mercy and grace at work in your life.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You always know what is best for us, while our vision is limited, You know and see all things. Thank You for the times You say “yes” to our prayers, and the times You say “no.”. Thy will be done. Amen.
About The Author
Karlton Douglas lives in Ohio with his lovely wife. He has suffered with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn’s Disease for many years, and has found God faithful to help him in his afflictions.
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 