Experiencing Eternal Life

 EXPERIENCING ETERNAL LIFE

“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” - John 17:3

Eternal life. Sounds great, doesn't it? Life is a gift from the Father above. Eternal life is also a gift, chosen by the Father, purchased by the Son and provided by the Holy Spirit.

Mankind has been pursing his own version of everlasting life for some time now. We seek medical breakthroughs, hoping to increase life expectancy. We emphasize healthy choices with the intent of prolonging life here on earth. The goal, it seems, is to ultimately increase life expectancy until death is obliterated. Of course, mankind cannot and will not achieve this. Yet Jesus has. He defeated death, hell and grave. Through His death upon the cross and resurrection from the grave, life has won and death is doomed. Ultimately, death will be the final enemy that is eliminated.

When talking with His Father, Jesus prayed, “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” Eternal life is found in knowing God through Jesus Christ.

Many people confuse a knowledge of Christ with knowing Christ. Many can use the Christian jargon without personally experiencing any of it. It is possible to talk about doctrine or difficult passages of Scripture and yet never know Jesus Christ personally.

I know about the man who is serving as President of the United States. Yet I don't know him personally. I can tell you several things about him, his family, his beliefs and his past, but I've never shaken his hand or spoken with him. He's never invited me to the White House for a special meal. He doesn't call me on the phone so we can have a friendly chat. Yes, I know about him, but I don't know him personally.

This describes how most people relate with the Lord. They know about Him. Perhaps they know much from Sunday School or church attendance. Maybe they've learned some things from a television or internet preacher. It could be that they know many of the Christian songs that are sung at worship services. But they can't honestly say that they know the Lord in a very personal way.

Yet to know Him is to love Him. When we meet Him, He steps into our lives. We begin to experience spiritual life because of the One lives within. This life is eternal.

Most people are existing, but not really living. Christ is not just the path to life, He is life. His presence in a man's heart brings spiritual life that is unmistakable.

Eternal life is received as we know God through Jesus Christ. It is a genuine experience of love that cannot be purchased or earned. Eternal life is a gift. We enjoy everlasting life when we meet the Lord and experience His divine grace.

There are many experiences in life that a man may enjoy. Yet these experiences are secondary to the divine miracle of saving grace.

I realize that some in the Christian community frown when I use the word, “experience.” Yet salvation is an experience. When a man passes from death unto life, it is an experience. It is a miracle. It is a work of God. Some have buried experience beneath a load of scholarship. While I commend people for studying, our study of Scripture should lead us to know the Lord in a personal way. Furthermore, as believers, we should seek growing levels of experiential knowledge as we grow closer to Christ.

“That I may know him...” were the words that Paul wrote to the Philippians. Obviously, Paul wanted to know Christ even better. He wanted an intimate walk with His Lord. Shouldn't we?

In John 10:10, Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Jesus came to give us life. Real life. Spiritual life. Abundant life. Eternal life. The real issue is not His willingness to give us this life, but our willingness to receive it.

Eternal life is not found at some utopia place like the fountain of youth. Medical science cannot produce it. Only Jesus Christ can provide it. It is a gift that we simply receive. The Bible says, “... the gift of God is eternal life...”

Have you received this gift? If not, receive this gift right now by faith.

Eternal Life

ETERNAL LIFE

“As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.” - John 17:2

Most humans believe that there is nothing more important than life itself. Yet Psalm 63:3 says, “... thy lovingkindness is better than life.” The source of life is better than life itself. When we properly understand this and appropriate this fact through faith in Christ, we truly begin to live.

As we continue our trip through our Lord's longest recorded prayer, we arrive at John 17:2, where Jesus speaks to His Father about eternal life. As followers of Jesus, we should find comfort and hope in this verse. This verse speaks about eternal life, something that each of us should consider significant. Our Lord prays to the Father about two things: power and purpose. Let's consider them both.

First of all, Jesus prays about His power. “As thou hast given him power over all flesh.” Most politicians are consumed with the prospect of having power. Yet the power they seek to obtain is limited. It is limited in its reach, because political power only impacts a fraction of the population. Secondly, it is limited in its duration. A politician can only serve a few years. His power is temporary. In contrast, the Lord has power, “over all flesh.” Furthermore, His power is not limited by time because He will reign forever.

After His resurrection, Jesus said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” His power is not restricted in any way. While many wish to remove power from His grasp, they are unable to do so. Ultimately, everyone will bow in submission to Him (see Philippians 2:9-11).

As part of His power, Jesus has the power to give life. John 1:12 says, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” We are accustomed to men abusing power, but our Lord is using His power for good things, while at the same time staying true to His character of holiness and justice.

Secondly, our text refers to His purpose: “... that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.” Referring to Jesus, John 1:4 says, “In him was life...” Jesus referred to Himself as life in John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” It is true that He came to give us life, but we must also recognize that He is life. He is giving us Himself. When we give ourselves to Him at conversion, He gives Himself to us and lives within us.

“As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.” Notice what He gives to His followers: ETERNAL LIFE. Let's consider this for a moment.

Notice that He came to give us life. Once we were dead in trespasses and sins. Yes, we existed physically, but we were dead spiritually. Jesus came and gave us life. Many years old, the Speer Family sang a song that featured Dad Speer. It was an up-tempo song called, “I Just Began To Live.” The song described how a person experiences new life in Christ. Regardless of his age, when a sinner meets Jesus, he just begins to live.

Also, consider the duration of the life He brings. It is ETERNAL life. It isn't temporary life or conditional life. It is eternal life. A person receives eternal life the moment he believes. Physical death does not initiate this life. Salvation does. Thus, eternal life does not begin at death, it begins with the new birth. Since it is eternal life, it has no end. Physical death is inevitable for each of us. Yet when a person dies in Christ Jesus, he goes to be with Jesus. His spiritual life never ceases. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.”

Jesus offers eternal life as a free gift. Paul put it this way, “... the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Eternal life cannot be purchased or earned. Instead, it must be received, by faith, as a gift. You see, eternal life is an expensive gift. It costs more than we could ever afford. It isn't cheap. Jesus paid for this gift with His shed blood on the cross. It is a precious gift. It is a gift of love, chosen by the Father, purchased by the Son and is presented by the Holy Spirit.

Have you received this free gift of eternal life? If not, make this the moment you do so.

Glory To His Name

GLORY TO HIS NAME

“These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.” - John 17:1

I still love many of the old hymns. Although I love many new songs, the old hymns seem to be so rich with theology and have such deep emotional impact. One of the hymns that I love is the song, “Glory To His Name.” The lyrics were written by Elisha A. Hoffman in 1878. It is believed that he wrote the song while meditating on the crucifixion of Jesus. The song relates the impact the crucifixion has on our lives today. The chorus expresses praise to the Lord for His marvelous work in our lives.

In a world where most people live for their own glory, the Christian faith stands in stark contrast. Properly lived out, Christianity is all about the glory of God. A genuinely converted person seeks to bring glory to God. The Lord is worthy of such glory and praise.

In John chapter 17, we find the longest recorded prayer of our Lord. In this chapter of Scripture, we get a glimpse of the intimate conversation Jesus had with His Father. Although this chapter can be read in about four minutes or less, it would be wise to stop and meditate on the words of this remarkable prayer.

In verse 1, the Bible says that Jesus lifted up His eyes and prayed. I am reminded what the Psalmist wrote in Psalm 121: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.” I think there is something here for all of us to learn. In critical moments, it is better to look up to the Father rather than look down in doubt.

It was a critical hour for our Lord. He said, “The hour is come.” Jesus was nearing the cross. Everything had been leading up to this vital moment. Although Jesus had accomplished much during His ministry, the main objective of His mission would be a cruel death upon a cross.

Next, Jesus made a request to the Father: “...glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.” Jesus asked the Father to glorify Him.

Sadly, many Christians would only echo the first part of the prayer and not the last. We want God to glorify us. We want to be lifted up. However, we'd prefer that this occur on our terms rather than the Lord's. You see, the Bible says, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” We like being lifted up, but not at the expense of our pride or comfort.

Our Lord was about to face the most humiliating, painful and draining experience of His life. In light of this, He prayed, “...glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee.” Jesus would be lifted up … on a cross. He had foretold of this event when He said, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” While reading this quote, you may be tempted to think that the phrase, “... if I be lifted up...” refers to our praise. But that is not the case. Others think that it is speaking about His ascension back to the Father. Instead, He is referring to His crucifixion. On the cross He was lifted up from the earth. It is the cross that draws men unto Him. The preaching of the cross saves souls. We need more preaching about the cross these days!

Yet there is also a truth that Jesus looked beyond the cross to His resurrection and ascension. The writer of the book of Hebrews refers to Jesus when He wrote, “... who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Writing to the Philippians, Paul wrote, “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.”

Because of the cross, our Lord has been exalted. Jesus glorified the Father through His obedience and sacrifice. Today, we glorify the Father even more because of the work of His Son. The Father glorified His Son and His Son has glorified the Father.

While many in the church wish to receive glory, there aren't many who wish to use such glory to praise the Father. No wonder such glory is rare these days. God doesn't seek to bless us so we can live independent of Him. He seeks to bless us for our good … and for His glory.

I think most Christians want to glorify the Lord, but I have a question for you to ponder. What if God is most glorified through your suffering … would you still want God to be glorified? That was the case for Jesus. God was glorified through the death of His Son. He is also glorified as we pick up our cross daily and follow Jesus.

The Father was glorified on the cross & our sins were paid for by the blood Jesus shed there. Jesus did it all for our good and for the glory of His Father.

Glory to His Name!

What Jesus Is Doing Now

WHAT JESUS IS DOING NOW

“For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” - Hebrews 9:24

We spend a great deal of time studying about what Jesus did during His earthly ministry two thousand years ago. We are correct in doing this. Four books of the New Testament give us insight into some of the things He did during His brief stay on earth. As Christians, we should learn from His teachings and seek to emulate His actions.

But what is Jesus doing now? According to the Scriptures, He ascended back to His Father and is sitting next to His Father. Our text says that He has entered, “...into heaven itself.”

Furthermore, He appears “... in the presence of God for us.” He is busy, even now.

Hebrews 7:25 says, “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Notice two things that Jesus is doing: He is saving and He is interceding. This verses teaches us that He is making intercession for us. In a sense, He is praying for us. Let's focus on this more closely.

Our text explains it this way: “For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.”

The writer of the book of Hebrews tells us that Jesus Christ is a high priest, yet not a priest after the order of Levi. Instead, Jesus is a priest after the manner of Melchizedek. You see, the priesthood of Levi had a beginning and an end. The priesthood of Jesus is eternal.

As a high priest, He makes intercession for His people. If we define prayer as talking with our heavenly Father, then we must say that Jesus is still praying today.

Moses was instructed to build a sanctuary based on a model that God showed him. The priests would enter this tabernacle as part of their ministry. Old Testament worship was centered around this tabernacle. Unlike the priests of the Old Testament, Jesus has not entered into a man-made tabernacle. Instead, He has entered into heaven itself. There, in the most holy place, Jesus serves as a priest, interceding on behalf of us.

The Bible says that Jesus is our advocate. Like an attorney defending his client, Jesus speaks on our behalf. The devil is the accuser of the brethren. He accuses us of many things. Yet we have an advocate who defends us. Jesus Christ is a better advocate than Perry Mason or Ben Matlock.

When we fail, the Lord is there to defend us. When we need help, He speaks on our behalf. In spite of the devil's accusations against us, our Lord defends us. Who could ask for better representation?

Our Lord has never lost an argument and He has never lost a case. Furthermore, His services come at no charge to us. How great it is to have Him speaking on our behalf!

When the disciples were with Jesus in the upper room, our Lord said, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:31-32). The Lord specifically prayed for Simon as he faced the challenges that were to come.

Robert Murray M'Cheyne once said, “If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me.”

How do you feel when you learn that someone is praying for you? What if you could hear them praying … and actually hear them mention your name? It is a blessing to have others pray for you. How much greater it is to know that Jesus Himself is interceding on your behalf!

Let me be rather honest. I need His intercession! What about you?

I'm glad Jesus is interceding for me. This also inspires me to pray for others. If we seek to be like our Lord, let us intercede for others when we pray.

When things go wrong, loneliness besets you, fear sets in, or grief overwhelms you, just remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

That's what Jesus is doing right now.

Our Lord's Dying Prayer

OUR LORD'S DYING PRAYER

“And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.” - Luke 23:46

The last words of a passing leader are normally immortalized by a biographer. Whether it be a British monarch, an American president or a wealthy businessman, we like to read the final words spoken by famous leaders. How much more important it is read the final words of Jesus before His death. His final words were actually spoken in prayer.

I don't know of a better way to leave this world than to die praying.

Pastor and author Alistair Begg was once asked to explain the dedication page of his book, PRAY BIG. Begg dedicated the book to the memory of T. S. Mooney, “who remembered me daily at the best place.” Alistair Begg explained that many years before he became friends with Moonie, who was a Scottish minister. Early on in their friendship, Moonie offer to put Alistair Begg's name on his prayer list. When Moonie died, they found him fully dressed and leaning over his Bible --- and the prayer list was on top of the Bible. Mooney had died praying.

Jesus died praying. His final words from the cross were, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” Jesus placed everything at the care of His Father. He trusted the Father with His death and His resurrection.

There is much for us to learn here. We are all mortal beings. As humans, we are facing physical death. We don't know when that moment will come. Maybe in a few years, perhaps today. We have a human tendency to hold tight to this world and refuse to let it go. Up till now, this world is all we've know. We have possessions, friends and family still here. To part with them is very difficult. From a human perspective, death seems dark, gloomy and uncertain.

Yet the Bible teaches us that death is just a doorway leading to a new world. As followers of Jesus, we are following His footsteps. Yet His footprints will lead us through the valley of the shadow of death. But His footprints go even further. His footprints lead us home.

If we're honest about it, we like the thought of leaving in the rapture. We like the idea of leaving here in the twinkling of an eye and cheat the undertaker of more business. This may happen. Yet we have no guarantee that Jesus will return in our lifetime. Whether He does or not, we need to be prepared to leave at any moment.

Just as we trusted God for our salvation, we are trusting Him when we face death. Our salvation not only covers the forgiveness of our past, it also insures our future. If we can trust God to save us from our sins, we can trust Him to take us safely home.

God's plan of redemption was fulfilled when Jesus died on the cross. The rough wood that He was nailed to became stained with His blood. That cross seems so repulsive to the world, but it is a glorious sight for us.

Jesus died for our sins on that cross. He completed salvation's work on our behalf. I am not saved by my works. I am saved by His work on the cross. I am saved because of His sacrifice. My sins are covered by His blood.

Now, we are called to take up our cross and follow Jesus. The cross was a place of execution. It was a means of death. We are called to die to sin and self and be surrendered to the Lord Jesus. In Galatians 2:20, Paul put it this way: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

The future is not in my hands. It never has been and never will be. In fact, everything would be a mess if it were in my hands. Knowing the heart of God, I can trust Him with my future. I trust His Word to be true. I know He is in control. So I can trust Him with my life … and my death. While the future seems so cloudy and uncertain, I can trust Him with every moment that lies ahead. He is sovereign. He knows what is best for me. I trust Him with the road ahead. My future is in His hands.

Jesus used His remaining strength to utter a prayer. Knowing He was about to die, Jesus prayed, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”

We can trust the Father with all we face today. Good or bad. Laughter or tears. Gain or loss. Life or death.

When the final moment comes, may God give us the grace to pray like Jesus, and say, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”

Grace Under Fire

GRACE UNDER FIRE

“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” - Luke 23:34

It is easier to talk about forgiveness than it is to practice it. It is impossible to determine the number of sermons that have been preached on the subject. Many books have been written about forgiveness. In spite of all this, forgiveness is practiced so little by professing Christians today.

We are humans. As humans we must communicate with each other. We make decisions, sometimes in a split second, that can impact others. As we talk, work and interact with other people, it can be easy to say something that can hurt the feelings of another. Sometimes we can be very insensitive about others. It is possible to offend someone without even realizing it.

I have found that those who are quick to demand an apology are often slow to offer one themselves. Some even enjoy being a “victim.” They seem to enjoy having others indebted to them. It is no wonder that forgiveness remains a major stumbling block for many. Some are demanding an apology they may never receive and others are too proud and stubborn to offer an apology.

All of us will be hurt from time to time. That is just the way relationships are. How do we respond when we are hurt and offended? In our text, Jesus was suffering in the deepest way possible. He was suffering physically. Yet His pain was not due to an accident or disease. Instead, men deliberately harmed Him. Men enjoyed watching Jesus suffer and die. An innocent man was dying because of the aggression of guilty men. In spite of the pain we've suffered in our lives, we've never suffered like Jesus did.

We've been studying the prayer-life of Jesus. Once again, we find Him praying from the cross. In the midst of His suffering, He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” From the cross, Jesus prayed for His persecutors. He could have prayed for their demise, but He didn't. He prayed for their transgressions to be forgiven.

This level of forgiveness should motivate us to forgive. The hurt we've suffered doesn't compare to the pain our Lord endured. As predicted, the disciples had forsaken Jesus. He faced a mockery of a trial. He endured the lashes of a whip. He wore a painful crown of thorns. He was forced to carry His cross to the place of execution. His physical condition had deteriorated to extent that they had Simon of Cyrene to help carry the cross. Then there was the awful pain of the nails being driven in His hands and feet. All this was deliberately planned and accomplished by scheming, wicked men.

Yet Jesus prayed for their forgiveness. If Jesus could pray for the forgiveness of His enemies, what is keeping us from forgiving those who've hurt us?

As we think about our Lord's prayer from the cross, we must consider an undeniable fact. We were among those who crucified Him. He went to the cross because of our sins. We offended Him with our transgressions. We rebelled against His authority, trampled on His Name and abused His grace. We did Him wrong. Like King David, we can honestly say, “Against thee, thee only have I sinned.”

Yet love compelled Him to endure such a horrible experience. He willingly suffered and died to save rebels like us. He died for His enemies. He sought to save the very ones who hated Him and treated Him with such contempt.

Because of His sacrifice, we are saved today. He died that we may live. On the cross He secured our forgiveness.

There's not a better feeling that to know you've been forgiven. Since we have been forgiven such a great debt, we should forgive those who do us wrong. Ephesians 4:32 states: “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” We are to forgive, “... even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven” us.

He didn't forgive us because we deserved to be forgiven. On the contrary, He forgave us in spite of our unworthiness. God forgave us, “for Christ's sake.” Now we are called on to be agents of grace, forgiving others “for Christ's sake.” The person who offended you may not deserve forgiveness, but you should forgive anyhow --- for Jesus' sake.

Jesus was going through the fire of affliction when He suffered on the cross. In the worst moments of His life, He showed grace under fire.

We should do the same.

Why?

WHY?

“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” - Matthew 27:46

I am not an expert in any subject. Admittedly, there are some subjects I know better than others, but not to the extent of being called an expert. As I often say, I know just enough to get me into trouble. I have begun many projects with a great plan --- and ended up with disaster instead. I have found new and creative ways to fail. Furthermore, there are so many subjects that I know nothing about at all. Sometimes I will tell people, “I can say, 'I don't know,' better than anyone.” I've had a lot of experience at this, too.

In life, there are many things that we don't know. In spite of our emphasis on education here in America, there are important problems we can't solve. Think about this. The common cold has been around for ages, but there is still no known cure for the cold. The best we can do is take certain medications to slow down the process and build up the immune system, but we've never come up with medication that stops a cold completely and prevents it from returning.

The most important aspects of life have a certain degree of mystery surrounding them. There are certain marvels of nature that fascinate us because of the uncertainty of them. The National Weather Service still cannot predict when and where a tornado may touch down. The best they can do is issue a tornado watch for a large region and then issue a tornado warning once the signature of a tornado seems to form on a radar or is reported to be already on the ground. Of course, we cannot prevent tornadoes. We never will.

The mysteries of life, like everything else, are in the hands of God. He is in control of them. Uncertainty is part of life. Unexpected events can unfold in a split second. The cause of these events are often as mysterious as the events themselves. When such events directly impact our lives, we are tempted to ask God, “Why did this occur?”

When we ask, “Why?” we are in good company. Jesus asked the same question in prayer to His Father from the cross. When we suffer, we tend to look for reasons for our suffering. It is true that sin has brought suffering and death upon all mankind. Yet there are times we suffer self-inflicted pain because of the consequences of our decisions. When we reap what we've sown, we can suffer greatly. At other times, God's chastening can bring pain. When a Christian sins, God may take that person “to the woodshed,” for correction. Thus, when we suffer, it is healthy to examine our lives and prayerfully determine whether we are suffering because of our own foolishness and failures.

Yet most of the suffering that we see in the lives of believers are not due to personal sin. Yes, the fall of Adam is the root cause, but many of our painful experiences are not due to our own mistakes and sins. In these moments, we are tempted to ask, “Why?”

It is deeply painful when a close loved one faces great pain or even death. When we look at society, it just doesn't seem fair that Christians suffer while wicked sinners have few problems at all.

Yet here is the truth. The specific reason that you or a loved one is suffering may be a mystery you will never solve. Deuteronomy 29:29 states, “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God.” The purpose behind our pain may remain obscure from us. We will never know the real reason for our pain until we get to glory.

From the cross Jesus asked the question, "why?" as He prayed to His Father. What prompted Him to ask this question?

On the cross, Jesus faced something that few of us understand. You see, He took our sins upon Himself. The Bible says, “The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.” Jesus had never sinned, yet the face of the Father turned against Him as Jesus bore our sins on the cross. This level of alienation from the Father was something Jesus had never encountered before. That is an aspect of the cross we don't normally consider.

Jesus died as a man so that grace could be extended to men. He suffered the consequences that we should have faced. He died so we may live. He suffered the loss of fellowship with the Father temporarily so that you and I may enjoy fellowship with Father eternally.

The best thing we can do with the mysteries of life is to leave them in the hands of our heavenly Father. We are limited in our understanding. We don't know the complex details of His will. Like Jesus, we can bring our questions and uncertainty to the Father and leave them with Him.

We can trust Him to know what He's doing, even when it is a mystery to us.

The Hardest Prayer To Pray

 THE HARDEST PRAYER TO PRAY

“And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” - Matthew 26:39

In the past several weeks, my blog messages have shown how Jesus modeled prayer for us. Along the way, we've learned about His desire to pray, the locations where He prayed and the posture of His prayer. Additionally, we learned about the duration of His prayers and, at times, the content of His prayers.

As we meditate on the subject of prayer, we must confess that it is easier to pray at certain times more than at other times. For instance, it is easier to pray and give thanks when things are going well, but it can be tough to praise God in the dark valleys.

In our text today, we find Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. This is a dark time for Him. He is facing the cross. It seems like the weight of the world is on His shoulders. It is an emotionally draining time for Jesus. He takes three disciples with Him, yet there comes a point where He leaves them in goes further into the garden and prays.

Notice our text says, “And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed...” Have you ever fallen on your face and prayed? Praying on your knees is a posture of surrender. But to fall on your face is an indication of humility and worship. When Jesus fell on His face, He did so with great emotion and stress. There, on His face, He prayed. Perhaps we should do the same from time to time.

The prayer that Jesus prayed in the garden is what I refer to as the hardest prayer to pray. Knowing the painful events that would lie ahead, Jesus prayed, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

Jesus knew that He would drink from the cup of suffering, receiving the wrath that you & I deserved. It wouldn't be pleasant. Even though He prayed for this cup to be removed, He still followed that request with this simple, yet profound request, “... nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

I consider this to be the hardest prayer to pray. Surrendering everything to the Father is not easy. Knowing all that awaited Him at the cross, Jesus basically said, “Whatever you want is fine with me.”

In His humanity, He wanted the cup to pass, but knowing all that was at stake, He surrendered His human will to the Father. His purpose in coming to earth pointed to this one awful event. Yet He was willing to endure it for the sake of His Father.

I must confess that there have been times I have tried to set boundaries in which God could work in my life. I've tried to set my own terms as I have sought to serve God. My flesh wants an easy, comfortable life. Yet God's will often leads us out of our comfort zone into the growth zone. He tends to take us to dark areas, where we have to depend upon Him for each step we take. He wants to make us stronger. Yet no one gets stronger by living in a recliner.

It is difficult to pray, “Thy will be done,” when a loved one is at the point of death or the future of your career is uncertain. We want to want walk in the sunshine daily, yet the rain is also necessary for fruit to grow. We'd like to avoid the tough days, the deep valleys and personal pain.

Yet Jesus faced the cross without holding anything back. He went to the cross in humble submission to His Father's will. As His followers, we are called to deny ourselves and take up our cross daily & follow Him. We are challenged to pray and live as Jesus did --- totally surrendered to the Father.

I must confess that there have been times I've come to God with my fists closed, trying to hold on to something. God wants me to come with empty hands, leaving everything to His will. If I pray, “Not my will, but thine be done,” my flesh tends to fear that God will take something important away from me. That's a sad commentary, isn't it? God can be entrusted with all these things.

Prayer is not meant for me to change God's will so it will conform with mine. Instead, prayer should be a time in which my will melts away so only His will remains. This may mean the end of a dream or goal. It may lead to a different conclusion than I sought. The loss of my will is not nearly as devastating as I make it out to be. When my heart is aligned with His, my will is lost in His.

At the most critical moments of our lives, it is tough to pray, “Thy will be done.” Yet ultimately, it is best that His will be done, rather than our own.

The most difficult prayer to pray is the petition we need to express daily: “Not my will, but thine be done.”

Praying With Faith

PRAYING WITH FAITH

“Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.” - John 11:41-42

Death is an unwelcome visitor at each home. When it comes, family members encounter untold grief and sorrow. The flood of tears give testimony of our heartbreak and loss. No home is immune to this unwelcome visitor. To us, death is more than an unwelcome visitor. We consider death to be an evil thief that has robbed us of the most precious treasure we have. Thankfully, death itself will soon be put to death. In the mean time, we must deal with the impact that this foe inflicts on us.

Jesus and His friends were no different. They had to face death and the grief it brings. Jesus loved Mary, Martha and their brother, Lazarus. After hearing that Lazarus was sick, Jesus and His disciples made the journey to Bethany. Jesus had informed His disciples that Lazarus was dead. Upon their arrival, they found that Lazarus had indeed died and had been buried four days.

The shortest verse in our Bible says, “Jesus wept.” This occurred as the Lord ministered to this grieving family. Jesus knows what it's like to grieve. He knows about heartbreak and sorrow. In fact, Isaiah prophesied of Jesus, saying that He is, “...a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief.”

Jesus went to the tomb of Lazarus and gave the command that the stone be taken away. Those at the site were hesitant to comply, knowing the body was probably undergoing the process of decay. Ultimately, they heeded the Lord's command.

At this point, Jesus prayed. The Bible says, “And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.” Jesus prayed verbally, being heard by the crowd that had gathered.

Notice a few things about our Lord's prayer. First of all, He lifted up His eyes and prayed. On this occasion, Jesus did not kneel. While kneeling is a good position for prayer, it isn't the only posture to take. Jesus lifted up His eyes to the Father. The psalmist wrote, “I will lift up mine eyes to the hills from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord.” In challenging times, it is easy to look down. But in such moments, faith causes us to look up. When we look up, we find the answer to our problems as we seek the Lord's help.

Next, the Lord gave thanks. He thanked the Father for hearing Him. Do you ever thank the Lord for hearing and answering your prayers? How many times has God brought a miraculous answer to you … then you failed to thank or even acknowledge Him? We're tempted to only give thanks on the good days. Yet the Bible says to give thanks for all things. That means that even our worst days are days of thanksgiving.

Also, Jesus expresses His confidence in the Father when He prayed, “And I knew that thou hearest me always...” Do you have such confidence in the Lord? Do you pray with such faith? I think this may be the reason why many prayers lack power. God honors the prayers offered with faith. God is pleased with faith. We honor Him when we pray with confidence in Him.

It is easy to let prayer become a religious exercise rather a personal conversation with God. When prayer becomes a ritual, we pray without any expectations. We simply talk to ourselves. We go through the motions. Prayer is reduced to just an activity.

Genuine Biblical faith ignites prayer and give life to our time with God. R. A. Torrey used to recommend that Christians refuse to say a word in prayer until they are sure they are in the presence of God. He is right. It is possible to start praying before you are even focused on God. They are empty words, void of power.

Jesus prayed with confidence at the tomb and ultimately Lazarus came forth alive. You may argue that Jesus had reason to have such confidence since He was the Son of God. Yet we should have that same kind of confidence because we're now the children of God. Jesus has given us permission to use His Name to approach the Father. Thus, when we pray, we can have the same confidence that Jesus had.

Our confidence should not be in our prayers … but in the One we pray to. Our faith is in the promises of God's Word. He has promised to hear and answer when we pray. We can depend on Him. We should have assurance that He will do what He promised to do.

Jesus prayed with confidence … and we should, too.

Living On The Resurrection Side

LIVING ON THE RESURRECTION SIDE

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” - Galatians 2:20

Why are so many Christians living defeated lives? Why do believers have a sour expression on their faces --- like they've been baptized in lemon juice? Some have mastered the art of complaining. Others live in fear and worry. Many seem to be motivated more by their feelings than their faith.

You see, some live as if it is pre-Easter, as if the crucifixion and resurrection hasn't occurred. They seek, in vain, to reach God through their own effort and accomplishments. Others live on the crucifixion side of life, but never get to the resurrection side. They are constantly repenting but never rejoicing. As believers, we are called to live on the resurrection side. That's how Paul lived.

Writing to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul testifies of himself when he wrote: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Paul was living on the resurrection side.

CRUCIFIXION WITH CHRIST

First of all, Paul wrote, “I am crucified with Christ.” When a person gets saved, his old life is crucified with Jesus. The Bible says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” The old person dies … being crucified with the Lord. The old person and his evil ways pass away.

We must die to sin. No, I am referring to self-mutilation or suicide. Instead, I am referring to bringing your past to Calvary and having your sins nailed the cross.

Jesus taught us a lesson in John 12:24 about the need for such a death. Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” It was only through the death of Jesus, that we experience forgiveness. The principle He taught in this verse is applicable for us as well. It is only when we die to sin that we really begin to live and be fruitful.

RESURRECTION WITH CHRIST

Although Paul had been crucified with Christ, notice the rest of his testimony: “... nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Crucifixion must precede resurrection.

Notice three things about living on the resurrection side. First of all, there is life with Christ. Paul wrote, “Nevertheless I live.” Just as Jesus arose on the third day, a man who is crucified with Christ will experience life. The Bible refers to conversion as passing from death to life. The life we receive is eternal in nature. It is abundant life. This life occurs because Jesus, who is life (John 14:6), lives within us. Paul wrote, “Christ liveth in me.” We live on the resurrection side because the risen Redeemer lives within us. Consider that! THE SAME LORD WHO WALK THE SHORE OF GALILEE, PERFORMED MIRACLES AND CHANGED LIVES IS THE SAME ONE WHO LIVES WITHIN US!!!! That fact should rock our world daily.

Secondly, there is leaning on Christ. Paul wrote, “... the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God.” When we live on the resurrection side, we live by faith, not by sight. Rather than being defeated by our feelings or circumstances, we live with confidence, trusting in the Lord.

Finally, there is love for Christ. Paul wrote that the Son of God, “...loved me, and gave himself for me.” Our lives become motivated by a deep love for Jesus, as we remember all He has done for us. We love Him because He first loved us.

The reason that people live defeated lives is because they aren't living on the resurrection side. The late Adrian Rogers once said, “We ought to be living as if Jesus died yesterday, rose this morning, and is coming back this afternoon.” That is living on the resurrection side!

With the old life crucified at conversion, we experience new life because Jesus moves in and lives His life in us. That is living on the resurrection side.

Water baptism demonstrates this. When a person is placed under the water, they are buried with Christ. It is the burial of an old life. The old life has died and is buried in a liquid grave. The person is brought back out of the water to live and walk in newness of life. Just as Jesus come forth from the tomb, a baptized believer arises to a new life. That is living on the resurrection side!

If we claim that Jesus rose from the dead, we should live like it!

Praying Alone

PRAYING ALONE

“And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him.” - Luke 9:18

Over the past few weeks, I've written how Jesus often had times of private prayer. He had those special moments when He would pray alone. As we learn to pray like Jesus, this is a fundamental truth that we need to apply to our lives.

It is great when you can pray with your spouse. It is sweet to have family devotions and pray with the whole family. It is wonderful to pray with other believers in a small group or at church. Yet there is no substitute for praying alone. In fact, most of our praying should be done isolated from others.

I think that most prayer warriors would testify that living a life of prayer can be a lonely experience. Many want to celebrate victories with us, but few want to join us in the trenches as we pray. Most want to enjoy the product of prayer, but few wish to join us in the process of prayer.

Look at our text again: “And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him.” The Bible says that Jesus was praying alone … but His disciples were with Him. How could He be praying alone if His disciples were with Him? Let me give you a few things to consider as you ponder that question.

First of all, the text seems to indicate that He was the only One praying. Although His disciples were with Him, Jesus prayed alone. Several years ago, a co-worker and I stopped in a fast-food restaurant for lunch. He was not a believer. Yet I told him I was going to pray over my food. I bowed my head and verbally gave thanks for my food. It turned out that my co-worker never bowed his head, but simply just kept on eating as I prayed. We were together, but I prayed alone. Yet how many of us have done the same thing? Someone has led prayer at a meeting, but our minds were elsewhere. Sad, isn't it?

Next, the disciples did not share in His burden to pray. If you have a great burden, it is good to ask others to pray along with you, but if they don't have the same burden, they may promise to pray but never join you at the throne room.

Also, it is possible to feel alone even though others are with you. There have been times I have felt alone even though I was in a crowd. Jesus was focused on the Father. Apparently, the disciples were not.

Jesus prayed alone. If asked, most pastors would admit that the ministry can be lonely at times. Some only call the pastor when they have a problem or complaint. In spite of the crowds that constantly followed Jesus, He knew that many only sought a free meal or hoped to see a miracle. The things that were on His heart were not on theirs. Yet at times He sought to get away from the crowds for solitude and prayer. He often prayed alone.

It seems as though the critical days of our Lord's ministry were preceded by these private sessions of prayer. Personally speaking, my greatest mistakes could have been avoided if I had prayed beforehand. Private prayers often precede public triumphs.

Perhaps no one knows about the long hours you spend in prayer. Alone on your knees, you talk with the Father. Yet there is One who knows. He's there with you. He hears your prayers. He is aware. You are never really alone when you pray.

Right now, Jesus is making intercession. He is praying for me. His presence is with me all the time. Yet I must sadly confess that there are times when my mind is elsewhere. Just like His experience with the disciples, Jesus prays and I don't. I know that Jesus is not lonely, but at times I give Him every reason to feel that way. I'm glad He doesn't neglect me like I sometimes neglect Him. I could talk with Him more often during my day, what about you?

It seems to me that if there's ever been a man who didn't need to pray, it would have been Jesus. Yet He felt the need to pray, and often prayed alone.

So should we.

Mountain-Top Praying

 MOUNTAIN-TOP PRAYING

“And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.” - Luke 9:28-29

As you look back at your Christian life, can you pinpoint three or four events that you'd consider outstanding? Such moments were life-changing. They were breakthrough moments. More than likely, you consider these days as pinnacle events. They are the highlights of your Christian walk.

Often, we use the word, “mountain,” to metaphorically describe such days. We have those “mountain-top” experiences that are unforgettable. In contrast, the low points of life are often referred to as “valleys.” We've had many of them as well.

For the disciples, one of the “mountain-top” experiences came literally on a mountain. Yet only Peter, James and John were permitted to go there with Jesus. Sadly, many believers don't experience certain blessings in life. Only those closest to Jesus are allowed to enjoy some of these experiences.

Notice what our text states: “And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.” The Bible says that Jesus went up in the mountain to pray. Most of us would think we should go up in a mountain to sing or reflect. But Jesus went there to pray. Perhaps we'd have more “mountain-top” experiences if we would be determined to pray. Prayer was the reason for this journey, yet something else was going to occur.

The Bible says, “And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.” Jesus was transfigured before them “as he prayed.” When Moses met with God, the Bible says that his countenance shined. It makes a difference when a person meets with the Father. Notice that the raiment of Jesus was “white and glistering.” His garment was shining. It was bright. The disciples caught a glimpse of the glory of God.

A time of prayer turned into a time of glory. A place of prayer became a sight of splendor. Moses and Elijah would join Jesus for this momentous occasion. There had never been event like this one. It all began as Jesus prayed.

Let me make a confession. My prayers have not produced the kind of results His prayer did that day. Yes, God has heard and answered my prayers in the past, but my place of prayer has never become a place where Deity would meet with Old Testament men of faith. Although I've felt my burdens get lighter in answer to prayer, I can't say that the place was illuminated with the glory of God.

Of course, this was probably the only time in history such an event took place on earth. Before it was over, Peter, James & John were on their faces before the Lord. They were overwhelmed at the things they had witnessed.

Moses and Elijah, representing the law and the prophets, made a return visit to earth for just a few moments and communed with the Lord. They discussed our Lord's suffering, which would occur soon at another hill, called Calvary. The Old Testament saints were saved by faith. They believed in the Lord. They personally trusted the Lord. As one preacher once said, “They went to heaven on a promissory note.” The blood of Christ was required for the Old Testament believers. The blood that Jesus shed on the cross was sufficient for the Old Testament saints. It was sufficient for those living in the New Testament. It is sufficient for us today. By the way, if the Old Testament saints only went to heaven through the blood, what makes men think today they can go to heaven another way?

I am thankful for the times of prayer that have turned into mountain-top experiences for myself. I am glad that I can come into the throne room when I pray. There I talk with the One who sits on the throne. It is a sacred event.

No, I've never had the kind of experience Jesus had there on the mountain. Yet one day I will. One day, I will see the glorified Son of God. Moses and Elijah will be there. It was a glorious day, made possible through the blood Jesus shed for Moses, Elijah, the Old Testament saints … and me.

Like Peter, James and John, I will fall on my face before the One who sits on the throne and give Him praise.

Until then, I will go to a place of prayer and commune with Him by faith. Sometimes these meetings turn into a little bit of heaven here on earth. They are just a foretaste of what's to come.

Heaven will be a spiritual Mount Zion. When I get there, it will be the greatest mountain-top experience of all!