A denial of prayers

The Hebrew writer said, “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared …” (Hebrews 5:7). The life of Jesus provides the model for our prayers. God wants to mold us into the image of His Son (Colossians 1:27-28). If we are to act like Christ, our prayers must be conformed to His. Many Christians are unwilling to pay the price that Jesus paid when it comes to interceding with God. Jesus’ prayers came with cries and tears and because of His godly fear, He was heard by the Father.

Why, then, did the Father refuse His request? It was not due to any sin in Jesus’ life, nor was it because the Father did not love His Son. The Father said no, despite the unfathomable love He had for His Son, because He knew He could not spare His Son and save a world. Likewise, the Lord cannot always spare you.

Are you willing for God to deny your pleadings? Will you intercede with the Father so deeply and intimately that even in the midst of your tears you are able to say, “… nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt”? Has God said no to one of your requests recently? Accept His answer. Have you been learning obedience through what you have been suffering (Hebrews 5:8)? If so, know that you are in the great company of your Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kyle Campbell