What Jesus’ Unanswered Prayer Teaches Us

Episode Summary. On the night before he died, in the Garden of Gethsemane our Lord pled with the Father, “If it is possible, let this cup pass from me.” Jesus pled with the Father to make a way so that he would not have to go to the cross. God said, “no.” God refused to rescue Jesus from the suffering he would endure. Many times, our God refuses to rescue US from the painful difficulties and trials he has ordained for us. Why? For the same reason he didn’t rescue Jesus. This episode examines this reason, which points to God’s purpose for us. Better understanding that purpose can draw us TO God when his path takes us through daily difficulties, instead of AWAY FROM him.For Further Prayerful Thought: What are the chief obstacles that keep you from choosing to be positive about irritations and frustrations that God is using in your life to make you more Christ-like?Do you agree that your attitude is based upon your perspective? If so, what needs to change in our perspective about everyday difficulties, irritations and trials in order to view those positively?Verse 4 in James identifies four ultimate objectives that persevering through difficulties and trials accomplishes—better glorifying God, putting your roots deeper into Christ, pleasing Christ more, and becoming a better representative of Christ. Which of these four is most motivating to you?Past Episode Series Highlight:  Becoming More Like Jesus: Beatitudes 1-6 (so far)  Season 1 Episodes #8-#11 (12/29/19-1/19/20) and Season 2, Episodes #3 and #4, (11/22/20-11/29/20).For the printed version of this message click here.For a summary of topics addressed by podcast series, click here.For FREE downloadable studies on men’s issues click here.