1. Not my will, but yours be done (36-42)

Jesus was young and full of life. He did not want to die. Yet the Scripture said that he had been sent to die for the sins of the world (Isa 53; 1Pe 2:24). He struggled alone in prayer to defeat the temptations of the flesh--the temptation to find an easier way. He called God 'Father', for he never doubted God's love. Notice the progression in his prayer (37-38,39,42,44) as he struggled to submit to the will of God. (Compare Heb 5:7-9.)

2. Sleeping disciples (43-46)

Jesus took his three closest disciples to the place of prayer. He shared with them his burden of sorrow and asked them to watch and pray. He needed their prayer support, and they needed to pray, for 'the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.' They could not overcome their bodies, so they slept. Later, they would give in to fear and run.

Application: Lord, help me to pray instead of sleep. Help me to know your will, and give me strength to do it.
One Word: Not as I will, but as you will