In honest vulnerability and humble surrender, Jesus prayed to the Father about His own needs — what He needed at that particular time to glorify God and complete His painful and difficult mission.
After John the Baptist baptized Jesus (Matt. 3:16–17; Luke 3:21–22), the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the Judean wilderness to fast and pray before He embarked on His public ministry.
During His sojourn on earth, Jesus often prayed with words and verses from the Scriptures that were available to Him during those days.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus frequently prayed intercessory prayers on behalf of others. His example teaches us how to carry the needs and burdens of others directly to the throne of God.
While Jesus most often prayed privately, it is recorded in Scripture that on several occasions He prayed aloud amid the crowds — and when He did, it was always for a particular purpose.
When Jesus prayed, He prayed most frequently in solitude. Jesus rose early in the morning — before dawn — to commune privately with His heavenly Father.
Sometimes what happens in the home is covered up because of shame or fear. Christians should educate themselves on spouse abuse, substance abuse and narcissism to see how they can better minister to families going through these struggles.
Has someone in your family or a church member ever faced one of these challenges: an eating disorder, obesity, stress, depression or suicide? The answer is probably yes.
