ARISE AND PRAY

Text: Luke 22:46

INTRODUCTION:

I’d like to commence this writing with the lyrics of a song: “Prayer is the key, prayer is the key, prayer is the master key, Jesus started with prayer and ended with prayer, prayer is the master key.” Prayer forms an essential foundation of faith in the life of every Christian. It serves as a means of communicating with God, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance and forgiveness, and finding solace. Toney Evans emphasizes that “The fuel that ignites the spiritual spark is prayer. Progress in the journey of faith is impossible without a prayer life, yet many Christians neglect it under the false assumption that they can get away with it.” (Pg.6).

Jesus Himself esteemed prayer and often spent solitary moments with God in prayer. In Luke 22:46, He urged His disciples to “arise and pray.” Aware that Satan, the accuser of believers, would assail His disciples, Jesus awakened their understanding of the significance of prayer. If Jesus Christ, the almighty and triumphant Master, could allocate time for fervent prayer, how much more should an ordinary person like you? Toney Evans further expounds, “When we truly grasp the vital importance of regular, sincere, private, and thoughtful prayer, we open ourselves to learning more about how to pray.” (pg.12).

There exists a profound connection between prayer and spiritual growth – regular prayer strengthens faith, enhances comprehension of God, and enriches the relationship with Him. When you rise and pray, you receive a stream of grace, forgiveness, and serenity, equipping you to conquer distressing circumstances. Prayer shifts the focus away from ourselves, providing clarity and purpose, enabling us to discern God’s plan for our lives. In this article, I will highlight certain points to invigorate your prayer life. These points are as follows:

1. ARISE
2. PRAY

The Breakdown of the Writing:

ARISE:

To arise signifies awakening mentally with a complete readiness to take action. It also involves taking decisive measures against a distressing experience that has long burdened you. This is reminiscent of what Jabez did in 1 Chronicles 4:10: “Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request.” (NIV). Jabez’s discomfort with his circumstances impelled him to rise and entreat his Creator. In Luke 22:46, Jesus questions His disciples, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” These words hold a potent message for us today, encouraging us to “ARISE” in our spiritual journey. The term “ARISE” can be broken down into an acronym, representing four pivotal actions that deepen our connection with God and guard against the snares of temptation and despondency.

A – Acknowledge God’s Presence: Begin by acknowledging that God is perpetually with you. Similar to Jesus’ counsel to His disciples, maintain awareness of God’s presence in your life. This awareness keeps you centered on Him, enabling you to seek His guidance in daily pursuits.

R – Renew Your Relationship: “ARISE” entails renewing your relationship with God through prayer, scripture reading, and seeking His purpose for your life. Regularly engaging in these spiritual practices enhances your bond with God, allowing Him to reshape you from within.

I – Intensify Your Faith: As you “ARISE,” your faith should intensify. This entails trusting God even in complex or uncertain circumstances. Just as Jesus encouraged His disciples to pray, cultivate an unwavering belief that seeks God’s wisdom in all situations. By doing so, you can overcome the temptations that come your way.

S – Seek Strength in God: While you “ARISE,” seek strength from God. Trials and despondency may loom large, but with God’s strength, you can withstand them. Rely on His power and solicit His aid to resist temptation.

Bruce Wilkinson inquires, “When was the last time you were certain that God worked through you in such a way?” (Pg.16). If your answer is negative, it’s time to arise and propel yourself into the realm of breakthrough.

E – Empowered by God: Being empowered when you “ARISE” means tapping into the strength and guidance of a higher power. It allows you to develop a deeper sense of purpose, faith, and clarity, which can have a positive impact on every aspect of your life. Instead of feeling helpless or overwhelmed by life’s challenges, you can become more confident in your ability to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. When you arise, you can connect with the divine and cultivate a sense of inner peace that empowers you to live more fully and authentically.

PRAY:

To pray involves establishing earnest communication with God, activating your covenant rights through communion. E.M. Bounds asserts, “Prayer is not a sporadic or short-lived endeavor. It is not a voice that remains unheard and unnoticed in silence. It is a voice that reaches God’s ears and endures as long as God’s ear is open to sacred pleas, as long as God’s heart beats for holy matters.” (pg.9). While God is ever prepared to deliver, provide, and defend, He expects you to acknowledge His almighty power over your challenges. Toney Evans explains, “Prayer must be a constant presence in our lives because of its pivotal role. One reason prayer holds immense importance is that it signifies faith.” (pg.9).

Throughout the Bible, numerous instances illustrate seeking God’s guidance through prayer. James 5:16 emphasizes the power of the prayer of a righteous person. Hannah, the mother of Samuel, prayed for a son, and her request was granted (1 Samuel 1:10-11). Moses’ intercession for the Israelites led to God’s merciful response (Exodus 32:11-14). The apostles fervently prayed for Peter’s release in Acts 12:1-11, and God answered their plea by sending an angel. Serious prayer demands dedicated space. Find a tranquil environment devoid of distractions, focusing your heart and mind on God. You can use prepared prayers or recite the Lord’s Prayer, but the key is to communicate from your heart with authenticity. Intercede for others, and you’ll witness transformation in your own life. Prayer significantly impacts your journey with God. As you arise and earnestly pray, you gain strength and encouragement from the Lord. Ensure that prayer becomes an integral part of your daily routine. While praying, remember that you are connecting with the Father, who listens and responds. Armed with this assurance, you can pray confidently, aware that your Father loves and attends to you.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Jesus’ words in Luke 22:46 prompt us to “ARISE” in our spiritual quest. By recognizing God’s presence, renewing our relationship with Him, intensifying our faith, and seeking strength from Him, we can navigate life’s trials and avoid succumbing to temptation and despair. Matthew 6:6 encapsulates this sentiment: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Ultimately, Jesus is the answer to our prayers, and you should create space in your life for Him to abide. Welcome Him today, and He will guide you through.

IT’S TIME TO PRAY:

1. Acknowledge God’s goodness and express gratitude for His love.
2. Seek God’s mercy and favor.
3. Present your specific prayer requests.

References:

1. Bruce Wilkinson, “The Prayer of Jabez: Breaking Through to the Blessed Life,” Multnomah Publishers Inc., Oregon, ©2000.
2. E.M. Bounds, “Purpose In Prayer,” Moody Press, Challenge Publications, 1978. Jos, Nigeria, ISBN 978-137-300-8.
3. Toney Evans, “Speak Out in Prayer,” Moody Press, Chicago, USA, ©2000, ISBN 0-8024-4368-0.

Written by:

John Aderogba, ROPMI.