Introduction:
Our Lord was about to go through a great trial of horror on the cross and yet, he took the time in the middle of his own agony to lift up in earnest prayer to his Father the needs of his followers. Jesus prayed for his disciples, including those of us who follow him today. He prayed that God would keep his chosen believers safe from Satan’s power, setting them apart and making them pure and holy, uniting them through his truth. You see, we are always on his mind. This was another true demonstration of the selfless love of our Lord.
I. The Glory of God
As we read verse 10 of the text, we see that God’s glory is the revelation of his character and his presence. A true disciple of Christ will demonstrate this quality to those around them. The lives of Jesus’ disciples reveal his character and he is present to the world through them. When you are close to God, the love and glory of God will shine through your life to those in your sphere of influence. Does your life truly reveal the character and presence of Jesus Christ?
Oh for such an absorbing passion for the consuming glory of God! God has promised to satisfy such a hunger for his glory in your life. Would you chose his glory to be your goal?
II. The Joy Of God
Throughout the teaching ministry of Jesus joy is a common theme. Jesus states in John 15:11, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." The key to immeasurable joy is living in intimate contact with Christ, who is the Source of all joy! However, with this joy comes a warning! They were different from the world and therefore they would be hated by the world. Therefore God himself alone would be their joy. Joy is a wonderful byproduct of obedience.
Why do we so often seek from the world and its influence those things that can only be given by God? We have been given the very best in him and yet at times, we settle for far lesser substitutes. Stay close to him and he will fill you with more of what is real and lasting than can ever be obtained elsewhere.
III. The Victory Of God
Jesus never prayed that his disciples might find escape. Sometimes our prayers are to be removed from circumstances that God may desire for us to stay in and be strengthened by him for the battle. Jesus prayed that they might find victory right where they were in the middle of difficulties. For this victory, a total dependence upon God alone would be a necessity! Karl Barth said, "To clasp the hands of prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world."
Christianity was never meant to withdraw a man from life; it was meant to equip him better for life. The daily application of God’s Word has a purifying affect on our minds and hearts. Scripture points out our sin, motivates us to confess it as sin, renews our relationship with Jesus Christ and guides us back to the right path.
Life Application:
We are dearly loved by God. He desires his body to be unified in their diversity. Are you helping to unify the body of Christ? We as believers can know unity among ourselves if we are living in union with God.
