Once you pray, leave the trial up with God and be willing to take up your cross just as Jesus did.
Hi, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada. When in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus fell to his knees and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not as I will, but as you will.” Jesus was asking not to have to face the cross. However, once he had finished praying, Jesus rose to his feet. Moments later, when the soldiers came to arrest him, Peter went on the attack. But Jesus did not resist. He said to Peter; “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” Did you hear that? Because it’s incredible: Jesus’s mindset was to no longer avoid the cross if possible; no, now, he was ready to unflinchingly embrace the cross. And that should speak to us. If you’re facing a terrible trial, sure, pray that if it is God’s will, he’ll remove it. But once you’ve prayed, leave the trial with him and be willing to take up your cross. It’s the example our Lord Jesus gave to you and me.
© Joni and Friends