April 3, 2018 - - Luke 5:16 What do YOU in secret?

But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.

Luke 5:16 ESV

What are you like when no one else is around? Are you snarky? Do you rehearse all the wrongs others have done against you? How ashamed would you be if other people could see what you do in secret?

Jesus withdrew and isolated Himself so that He could pray.

Jesus, when He was alone, cultivated and deepened His relationship with His Father in heaven.

Jesus was revived by the Spirit by such times in prayer.

Jesus subdued His own will in such times of prayer so that He would carry out the will of the Father, Who sent Him.

Jesus pleaded with His Father for the protection of His disciples.

Jesus sought the strength He needed to carry out the work which was given to Him.

Father in heaven, thank You for the great gift of life that is ours in Jesus. Thank You that Jesus prays for us, at Your right hand. Spirit of God, direct us into times of isolation for prayer, for cultivating a deeper relationship, fleeing from sin and intentionally driving ourselves further into faithfulness. Forgive us for the times we have isolated ourselves to feed our secret sins. Put to death in us the old ways. Even as we pray these things, we are tempted, distracted and half-hearted, renew in us the joy of our salvation so that our time with You is joy. Amen.