[Scripture Reading: Mark 10:35-45]

Introduction

A. We may often feel that we don’t have time to pray as we should when the truth is that we don’t have time not to pray.

B. When we come to realize what a great privilege prayer is, perhaps we will dedicate more time and energy to the practice of it.

Discussion

I. Jesus made time to pray when most others wouldn’t.

A. Jesus often prayed while others were slept (Mark 1:32-39; Luke 6:12).

B. Jesus prayed when His soul was distressed (Matthew 14:13,23; 26:38-41).

C. Jesus prayed when He was under great pressure (John 6:15; Matthew 14:23; Luke 4:42-43; Mark 1:35).

II. Jesus shut the world out so that He could be alone with the Father.

A. This is what He taught others to do (Matthew 6:5-6).

B. Jesus often resorted to deserted places in order to pray (Luke 5:16; Matthew 14:23; Luke 9:28-29; Luke 22:39-44).

C. Jesus would dismiss the multitudes (and even the Twelve) when He needed to (Matthew 14:22-23; Luke 22:41).

Conclusion

A. This week let us all resolve to find at least a 20-minute block when we can pray without interruption and take all our worries to God.

B. Whatever it takes, we must not neglect the tremendous blessing that our God has afforded us in prayer.

C. We must also remember that “the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil” (1 Peter 3:12).