Every Good Gift: A 28-Day Advent DevotionalSample

Jesus lived out His intimacy with God. Continually, He slipped away from His disciples and crowds of people to a quiet place to pray. Jesus was intentional to show us that it is only through constant fellowship with God and the Holy Spirit that we can do the will of the Father and bring the Kingdom of heaven to earth. Jesus’ life teaches us that prayer is essential.

“Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

 A life of continual prayer is essential for us as believers. Prayer is the channel through which we commune with God and the pathway through which we call heaven to come to earth. It is the way we bring into manifestation the blessings that the Lord has promised us. 

Jesus said, “When you pray, say: “Father hallowed be Your Name, Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” (Luke 11:2-3)

Heaven on earth, God with us.

There were many who had awaited the coming of the Messiah. But there were those who travailed in fervent prayer for the coming of the Saviour. One of them was Anna the old prophetess, whom the Bible described as never leaving the temple, praying, fasting and worshipping night and day. (Luke 2:36-38) Another was Simeon, described as righteous and devout, who was also awaiting the consolation of Israel. (Luke 2:25-35) Both beheld baby Jesus as He was brought to be presented in the Temple. Their eyes had finally seen whom they had been praying for and it brought them great joy. 

But even in those times when change tarries, we are called to pray still. Because as long as we keep praying, even when things seemingly remain the same, we are changed. As long as we keep coming to the secret place of prayer, the Holy Spirit continues to work on the renewing of our minds, the transformation of our hearts and the edification of our spirits. Just like on the Mount of Transfiguration, where the countenance of Jesus was altered, in the place of prayer we are also changed. We are also transfigured and transformed into the image of Christ. (Luke 9:29)

Prayer: 

Holy Spirit, pour upon me the unquenchable desire for prayer. Show me the way to the secret place where I can meet with God in ways I never have before. Help me to pray like Jesus did, so that I can be transformed into His image and likeness and live as He lived to glorify God. Amen.