And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed” (Matthew 26:39).

There are several instructive features: – in our Saviour’s prayer in His hour of trial!

It was a prayer in solitude! He withdrew even from His three favoured 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 a prayer of submission! Luke says He knelt, but another evangelist says He “fell on His face.” Are you a humble servant of the great Master? Humility gives us good foot-hold in prayer. There is no hope of prevalence with God unless we abase ourselves that He may exalt us in due time.

It was prayer with Sonship! “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 have forfeited them by your treason; But nothing can forfeit a son’s right to a father’s protection. Be not afraid to say, “My Father, hear my cry.”

It was a prayer of steadfastness! He prayed three times.

Cease not until you prevail. Pray without ceasing! Be as the importunate widow, whose continual coming earned what her first supplication could not win. Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.

It was a prayer of surrender! “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”

Let it be as God wills, and God will determine for the best. Be content to leave your prayer in His hands, who knows when to give, and how to give, and what to give, and what to withhold.

So pleading, earnestly, importunately, yet with humility and resignation, you shall surely prevail.

(PA)