Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. (Ephesians 6:18)
And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26:40-42)
In Matthew 26:40-42, we find Jesus at one of His most vulnerable ministry moments. God’s plan was being fulfilled, which meant Jesus was on His way to the cross to become the sacrificial Lamb. Yet, at this moment, Jesus asked God if there was any other way to reconcile man to the Father.
Jesus was not trying to manipulate the Father. We must never forget that prayer is not something we do to manipulate God. It’s a conversation with God that helps us see things from His perspective and connect with Him in submission and love. Despite the pain He knew He would endure, Jesus surrendered to the Father’s plan, demonstrating ultimate trust and obedience.
You can’t pray against things that are prophesied. You can’t pray against what God has already designed to happen.
Jesus' call to the disciples to watch and pray reminds us to be alert and listen in prayer. We must watch for the bad things that may attack us and be watchful for God’s will. Prayer is all about our relationship with God. Although prayer can’t always change things God has put into play, prayer doesn’t just change situations. Scriptural and dedicated prayer brings comfort, strength, and peace as we surrender to His will..
Practical Application
In prayer, asking God to guide your heart and mind toward His will for situations is essential. You can rest assured that God’s will never goes against His Word. So, pray with a heart of submission and trust.