Commanded To Pray

Commanded To Pray

In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

Until now you have not asked for anything in my name.

John 16:23–24

In this passage, Christ shows us how to defend against the obstacles thrown at us by the devil and our sinful nature. These threaten to tear us away from prayer. Christ tells us, “My Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” First, Christ commands us to pray. Then he admonishes us for not asking. He repeats his command and drives it home to show that he’s serious. He demands prayer as true worship and as the real work of Christians.

Study what Christ commands in this passage and put it into practice. Don’t consider prayer something you do voluntarily, as if it wouldn’t be a sin if you neglected to pray. Don’t act as if it’s enough for others to pray. Now you know that Christ earnestly commands prayer. If you don’t pray, you risk the greatest disgrace and the highest penalty. Christ’s command here is similar to the commandment that prohibits worshiping any other gods and blaspheming God’s name. Those who never pray should know that they aren’t Christians and don’t belong in God’s kingdom. Now don’t you think that God has good reason to be angry with idolaters, murderers, thieves, blasphemers, and others who despise his Word? Don’t you think he’s right to punish these sins? Why, then, aren’t you afraid of God’s anger when you disrespect his command and confidently act as if you aren’t obligated to pray?

So this passage should serve as a strong encouragement to pray diligently. Prayer is our comfort, strength, and salvation. It’s our first line of defense against all of our enemies.