Why did Jesus pray?

Dear friends,

“But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray” (Luke 5:16).

The Lord Jesus set a good example for us in this way. As busy as He was, He was never too busy to pray. In fact Jesus would get up before the sunrise so He could have some time alone to pray (Mark 1:35). Apparently there were times when Jesus would stay up all night praying (Luke 6:12). And on the darkest night of His life, He dedicated the final hour before His betrayal to prayer (Mt.26:36).

Have you ever wondered why Jesus prayed? He was God after all, so it hardly seems necessary. Let me just suggest a few possible answers. First, Jesus never sinned and it would be a sin not to pray. He lived to “fulfill all righteousness” (Mt. 3:15). Second, Jesus prayed so that we would follow his example. After praying for Lazarus, Jesus said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around” (John 11:42). Jesus prayed so we would see and believe that we should pray too. Finally, in that same verse, He gives one more reason why He prayed. He said: “I said this… that they may believe that you (Father) sent me” (John 11:42). Jesus wanted those around Him to see that He was sent by God in Heaven.

So that is why Jesus prayed. What about you? Are you obedient in prayer? Are you setting a good example in prayer for others? Are you demonstrating that you are in a relationship with God by talking to Him often?
Your servant,

Stephen

Rev. Stephen St. John