I had an opportunity in the middle of the night last night and again early this morning to spend time alone in prayer. This is how we build upon our relationship with the Lord. Jesus taught, “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matt 6:6)

Have you ever wondered why He told us to pray alone? I came across the following this morning that truly resonated with me. Jesus needed quiet time with the Lord. Are you stronger than Jesus? I know I’m not, and I need to follow His example!

“Yet the news about Him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:15-16)

“Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Later Simon and the others went out to find Him. When they found Him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” (Mark 1:35-37)

“And He came out, and went, as He was wont, to the mount of Olives; and His disciples also followed Him. And when He was at the place, He said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when He rose up from prayer, and was come to His disciples, He found them sleeping for sorrow.” (Luke 22:39-45)

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your example that we need quiet time alone with You; to seek Your guidance, Your will, and Your comfort and peace. Lord, thank You for the reminder that You also needed alone time to strengthen Yourself. How could I ever think I needed less than You? In Your precious name, amen!