By: Juliet Constantine
I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You, Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. (John 17:9, 11 NKJV)
“I will never wash my face again!” The happy, successful contestant, on Britain Got Talent, leaped into the air and voiced his inner happiness as he referred to his token of confirmation – a soiled, red lipstick cheeks - received from the female judge he wanted to impress. He performed very well and was truly elated when he received the yeses from all four judges. He knew that though the competition would be challenging, he had the assurance that he was good enough to proceed to the next level.
In times of difficulty, I kinda feel the same way when I remembered that Jesus prayed for me. I am thankful for my family and friends - knowing that they have and are praying for me gives me added impetus to carry on. But nothing beats the assurance I have knowing that Jesus prayed for me. He asked our Holy Heavenly Father to ‘keep’ us.
Are you asking, “Where did I read that?” Let’s continue reading verse 20. Yes, right here. He prayed for us too because we believe His words. Wow! Isn’t that wonderful! He prayed that God would keep us from the evil one. Amazing! He did not pray for God to take us out of the world, but that God would keep us.
This reminds me, whenever I am pray, I sometimes asked God to remove the obstacles out of my way and make my way straight. But here is a lesson for me. Instead of asking God to remove obstacles, I should ask Him to keep me as I try to work my way around them. Learning how to overcome problems is a blessing than never to have faced any problems whatsoever. Jesus has already prayed for me, and I know our Holy Father has answered His prayer. I now need to keep in line with His prayer.
And you should too. Instead of asking God to remove the thorn from your flesh, why not try asking Him to teach you how to tolerate it, to handle the situation so that His name will be praised? Why not ask Him to give you a song and a smile that will buoy your spirits on? Do not worry that you may fail. Trust Him to see you through. Jesus asked Him and He confirmed that He will keep you from falling.
The prayers of our loved ones really do help; but with Jesus’ prayer for us, none can compare. We are guaranteed divine help because Jesus prayed. I am so happy He prayed for me and you. Let’s show Him that we are willing to be kept.
Our Father in Heaven, holy is Your name. Thank you for keep me in the hour of testing. Thank you for keep me from the evil one. May I always be willing to be kept by You, in Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – At His Feet” Daily Devotional)
