3 Lessons From Jesus' Prayer Life

Jesus Praying All Night

Last week, we explored three alternatives to ‘saying’ a prayer. This week, continuing with the theme of prayer, we are focusing on Jesus’ prayer life. If you look at the Gospels, you will often find Jesus praying. There are about 25 unique instances where Jesus is either praying or His prayers are recorded, showing us that prayer was a significant part of His life. Jesus prayed at different times and in various locations. He prayed early in the morning (Mark 1:35) and late at night (Luke 6:12). He sought solitude in secluded areas (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16), prayed on mountains (Matthew 14:23; Luke 6:12), and in gardens (Matthew 26:36, Mark 14:32, Luke 22:39-41). The types of prayers Jesus prayed were diverse as well. He offered prayers of thanksgiving (John 6:11; Luke 22:17-19), intercession (John 17; Luke 22:32), and personal prayers (Luke 22:42). These observations about when, where, and how Jesus prayed provide a blueprint for our own prayer life and spiritual discipline. They also offer profound insights into the essence of prayer. Therefore, let us dive into the lessons we can learn from Jesus’ prayer life. There are many lessons to learn, but we will focus on three of them.

1. Prioritize Connection with God

In Luke 5:16, it is stated: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” This verse comes in the context of Jesus’ early ministry, where He was gaining popularity due to His teachings and miracles. Despite the demands on His time and attention, Jesus intentionally withdrew to solitary places to commune with God in prayer. The phrase “lonely places” or “deserted places” in some translations suggests that Jesus sought out solitude away from the distractions of crowds and daily activities. This deliberate choice highlights the priority Jesus placed on intimate communication with God the Father. By withdrawing to pray, Jesus exemplified the value of solitude in building a deep connection with God. These moments of prayer were likely characterized by heartfelt conversation, spiritual reflection, and listening to the Father’s voice.

For believers, this aspect of Jesus’ prayer life is a lesson to carve out dedicated time and space for prayer amidst the busyness of life. Just as Jesus sought solitude for communion with God, we should find our own “deserted places” where we can engage in meaningful dialogue with our Heavenly Father. Furthermore, this practice emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in prayer. In the solitude of prayer, we can freely express our deepest thoughts, concerns, and desires to God, knowing that He listens and cares for us.

2. Prayer Before Major Decisions

In Luke 6:12-13, it is recorded: “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.” This passage illustrates Jesus’ intentional preparation for a significant decision - the selection of His twelve apostles. Before making this crucial choice, Jesus withdrew to a mountainside to spend the entire night in prayer. This prolonged period of prayer demonstrates His commitment to seeking God the Father’s will and guidance in the decision-making process. By praying throughout the night, Jesus exemplified the importance of seeking divine wisdom and discernment before making important decisions. The fact that Jesus prayed before selecting the twelve apostles highlights the seriousness of the decision and the need for divine direction in choosing those who would play a pivotal role in His ministry.

This aspect of Jesus’ prayer life serves as a model for all those seeking God’s guidance and wisdom in their own decision-making processes. Whether facing major life choices, career decisions, or other significant matters, we should follow Jesus’ example by committing these decisions to God in prayer. Moreover, Jesus’ prayer before choosing the apostles emphasizes the importance of aligning our decisions with God’s purposes and plans. Through prayer, we can discern God’s will and direction, ensuring that our choices honor Him and contribute to His kingdom work.

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3. Praying for Others

One significant example of Jesus praying for others is found in John 17, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer. In this prayer, Jesus intercedes for His disciples and all believers who would come to believe in Him through their message. The entire chapter provides profound insights into Jesus’ heart for His followers and His desire for their unity and sanctification. In John 17:9, Jesus prays specifically for His disciples: “I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.” Here, Jesus acknowledges His disciples as a gift from the Father and intercedes for their protection, sanctification, and unity. Continuing in John 17:20-21, Jesus extends His prayer to include all future believers: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” These verses reveal Jesus’ expansive love and concern for all who would come to believe in Him. He prays for their unity, echoing His desire for believers to be united in Him and the Father, mirroring the unity within the Godhead.

Another powerful instance of Jesus praying for others is seen during His crucifixion in Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Despite experiencing immense suffering, Jesus demonstrates compassion and forgiveness toward His executioners, praying for their forgiveness. These examples highlight Jesus’ heart of compassion, love, and intercession for others. He not only prayed for His disciples and future believers but also for those who persecuted Him. Jesus’ prayers for others reflect His selfless and sacrificial love, inviting believers to imitate His example in interceding for others and extending forgiveness and grace.

For all of us who are followers of Christ, Jesus’ practice of praying for others serves as an example of intercessory prayer—lifting the needs, concerns, and well-being of others before God. Through intercession, we can participate in God’s redemptive work and demonstrate His love and compassion to the world.

Friends, when we look at the prayers of Jesus, we see more than just a model to follow. We find a call to put our relationship with God first, to ask for His guidance in our choices, and to pray for others with kindness and love.

Until next time… keep praying!