What Jesus Did! 'The Company of Friends' — Matthew 26:36-38

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Then Jesus went with [the apostles] to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, "Sit here while I go over there to pray." He took Peter and Zebedee's two sons, James and John, and he became anguished and distressed. He told them, "My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
— Matthew 26:36-38 NLT

Key Thought

It's hard to imagine Jesus' needing anything if we think only of his divine nature and ignore his human nature. But God never allowed that separation. Jesus faced the same struggles and needs we do as mortals. He knew what lay ahead for him. He knew he would be abandoned by all those he had invested himself in. But before that horrible journey began, he wanted the companionship of those closest to him. And he wanted that companionship while he prayed!

Today's Prayer

Father, I confess that sometimes I am caught up in my own self-sufficiency and wrongful thoughts of independence when I know, deep down, that I need the strength and support of other believers. Forgive me when I think too much of my own strength and when I am too proud to ask for the help of my brothers and sisters in Christ. Humble me gently so that I will open my heart to the help and companionship of Christian friends. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Luke 22:39-40
  • Mark 1:35-37
  • Luke 11:1-4

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 26:36-38 NLT — "Sit here while I go over there to pray." —— "My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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