He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. – Luke 22:41-44 NIV

Father God, giving up my will is never easy, but the picture of Jesus in the garden submitting to you and your better plan will always take my breath away. The anguish this must have caused, not only Jesus, but you! You knew the path Jesus would take because of your will for him. You

saw the end and everything leading up to his final breath on the cross. What an excruciating sacrifice—for both of you. I know I will face life and death situations in my life, and I have hope knowing you will send me comfort and strength in those times. I pray that during the small and the overwhelming battle of wills, I will submit to you and see victory in the surrender. Amen.

Spiritual discipline: practice submission