Read: Mark 1:29-39
Rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, [Jesus] departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (v. 35)
Praying is much like exercising. We know it’s beneficial, we often don’t do it as frequently as we’d like, we can’t always see an immediate impact, and it can be very rewarding. Prayer is the primary way we communicate with God. Through prayer we can praise, confess, intercede for others, express gratitude, and ask for God’s help.
In today’s passage, notice the busy day Jesus had (vv. 21-35). He taught, cast out an unclean spirit, healed Peter’s mother-in-law, and ministered to a large crowd at sundown. Jesus had every reason to sleep in, but instead he got up while it was still dark and found a quiet place to pray. Jesus gave us a model for prayer in the Lord’s Prayer and reflected humility in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane before he suffered and died—“not what I will, but what you will” (14:36).
Just as exercise is crucial for our physical well-being, prayer is necessary in our relationship with God. What steps can you take in order to enhance your prayer life? Set aside time, make a list of people to pray for, be bold, confess openly, and express gratitude. Rather than trying to live by your own strength, pray and ask God to help you live for him.
As you pray, be honest with God and remember that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16 NIV).
About the Author
Rev. Steve Petroelje is a specialized transition pastor who serves vacant churches and helps them assess health, pursue missional effectiveness, and conduct a pastoral search process. He is the past-president of the Words of Hope Board of Trustees.
