Text: Mathew 14:22-29
Memory Verse: “And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there” (Matthew 14:23).
In Matthew 26:40, we see Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane with His disciples. He had asked them to tarry and watch with Him, but when He returned, they were asleep. He turned to Peter and asked, “What, could ye not watch with me one hour?”
This was the same Peter for whom Jesus had earlier prayed: “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat but I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail….” (Luke 22:31&32). Peter did not take Jesus’ warning seriously and could not watch with Him for even one hour. He succumbed to the dictates of the flesh. Jesus has redeemed us and is still interceding for us at the right hand of the Father. Yet, how often do we take
time to be alone with Him?
Moses spent forty days with God alone on Mount Sinai twice. Jacob was left alone at Peniel and encountered God (Genesis 32:24). Paul withdrew to Arabia for three years after his conversion. Jesus Himself often withdrew to pray and even spent the entire nights in communion with God. Jesus prayed before choosing the 12 disciples. Prayer can never be outdated.
All these men recognised the value of being alone with God. If they all found time to do so, what is stopping you today? The question you must ask yourself is, “what is preventing me from spending quality time alone with God?” Let nothing hinder that sacred fellowship.
Prayer Points:
1. O Lord, please help me to prioritise spending time alone with You.
2. O Lord, let me enjoy the benefits due to those who spend time with You.