John 17:15-19
My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify Myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.
It literally sends chills up and down my spine to understand that Jesus actually prayed for each and every believer! As we read the words of this beautiful prayer of our Lord, it is awesome to remember that He has each of us written in the palm of His hand. Accept this mighty prayer in your behalf.
Jesus could have easily taken all of His disciples with Him when He ascended into heaven. He didn’t! Jesus had a plan and purpose for the disciples of His day as well as the believers of all ages.
Read today’s Scripture once more and where I have underlined the words they or them, place your name instead. You see, Jesus had a plan and purpose for each believer. Some have been called to endure suffering and sacrifice, and others to a life of plenty in which to give to the work of ministry.
Things change rapidly, and we never know from moment to moment whether we will live or die for the Lord. But there is one thing we can know for certain — He has prayed this prayer for you knowing every moment of your life. What are you doing for Him?
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil