Matthew 26:36-41
Gethsemane
36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Verse of the day
For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.
First, the devotion of the day.
Psalm 119: 12
12
Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees.
The psalmist honors God before asking to be taught. This shows a humble heart. True spiritual growth begins when we recognize God alone is worthy of praise and we need his instruction to live rightly.
Today begin your prayer time praising God before asking Him for anything. Then, choose one command or truth from God’s Word and intentionally practice it throughout the day.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the God of truth and wisdom. I honor You for who You are, holy, faithful, and worthy of all praise. I come before You with a humble heart, recognizing that without Your guidance I cannot walk in righteousness. Teach me Your statutes, not only in my mind but deep within my heart. Help me to love Your ways, to understand Your will, and to obey Your commands even when it is difficult. Correct me when I go astray, strengthen me when I am weak, and shape my life so that it reflects Your truth. May Your Word be my guide, my delight, and my foundation each day. I surrender myself to Your teaching, trusting that Your ways lead to life. Amen.
