“BECAUSE JESUS PRAYS FOR US...”

9 “I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.” 

John 17:9

Have you ever felt spiritually and emotionally dry and running on empty, trying to fix your own mistakes and manage your life? I have, and it can get really exhausting. But what if you don't have to handle the pressure alone? Did you know we have Someone who lives to make sure God hears our prayers?

John chapter 17 is a heartfelt prayer known as Jesus’ “High Priestly Prayer.” After delivering His Farewell Discourse, Jesus now prays for Himself, the disciples, and future believers. This moment is also the start of Jesus’ “time.”

In our last blog, we learned that just because God loves His people, doesn't mean the rest of the world means nothing to Him. Let’s continue working on this verse.

Jesus prayed for the disciples because the salvation of the world will depend on their witness and those after them. As He returned to the Father, the disciples had to stay behind in a hostile world. They would be the subject of severe persecution because of their message and therefore needed spiritual strength and power to overcome hostility.

This prayer played an integral part in the disciples' success. The Book of Acts showcases the rapid movement of Christianity from Jerusalem to the uttermost parts of the Roman Empire in less than thirty years. The disciples Peter, John, and Paul faced multiple imprisonments and floggings, while Andrew was beheaded. Jesus' example taught them to trust in God for both good and challenging times.

Thankfully, the Lord who prayed for the disciples that night is the same Lord who prays for us today.

25 “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” 

Hebrews 7:25

Since Jesus lives forever as our High Priest, He can pray for us and ensure our salvation is complete and that we have everything we need to live God-honoring lives. As our Advocate, Jesus provides defense for our case, silencing the accusations of Satan. And because He cleanses us from all sin, we can approach God with boldness and confidence. We know for certain that God listens to our every word.

With that in mind, you and I should come to Christ with our burdens and hardships, knowing that he actively prays that we might have the strength to endure and overcome. More importantly, because He lives forever, we don't need human mediators or rituals to reach God. We have direct access to God's throne.

How can you intentionally draw near to God at different times today?

How does knowing that Jesus' prayers for you do not stop when you rest or sleep?

Pursue the Savior today!

Photo by Ümit Bulut on Unsplash