Not My Will, But Yours: Finding Strength in Submission by Pastor Paul Becker

Luke 22:39-46

Remember the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane? Right before he was arrested, Luke 22:39-46 tells us he was in deep prayer, knowing that his purpose to redeem sinners from the consequence of death was coming (Rom 6:23). Jesus knew that he was going to drink from the cup of God’s wrath against all of our sins.  Yes, every single one of our past, present, and future sins. But in the end, he said, "Not my will be done, but yours."

Sometimes, we think that being strong means always getting our way and fighting everything that opposes us or threatens to disrupt our comfort. But Jesus showed us a different kind of strength in Gethsemane: the strength to submit, to say "yes" to God even when it's hard.

Jesus is the Son of God, but he didn't try to overpower a situation that would lead to his arrest, false charges, mockery, torture, and an execution on a cross.  Instead, he demonstrated trust in his Father. And what happened? The Bible says an angel came and gave him strength. (Lk 22:43)

What does this mean for us? When tough times hit, our first reaction might be pushing back and doing things our way. But Gethsemane teaches us that true power can come from trusting God and following His lead to live holy lives with truth and love, even if we don’t understand it.

How can we find strength in submission?

• Acknowledge your struggles to God in prayer but choose to trust him: Tell God how you feel but be open to His plan: It's okay to tell God what you want and how hard things are. But like Jesus, try to end by saying, "But I want what you want, God."

• Lean on God’s Provision. God will help you. Trust that God will help you: Just like the angel helped Jesus, God promises to give us what we need during tough times. This might not be what we naturally desire, but it will be what helps us get through.

• Find peace in letting go. When we stop trying to control everything and trust God, it can bring a surprising sense of peace. We don't have to carry all the weight ourselves.

• Get closer to God by trusting Him. Whenever we choose to trust God's way, even when it's hard, our relationship with Him strengthens. We learn that He's always there for us and that His love is real.

Gethsemane wasn't Jesus giving up. It was him choosing to be strong in a different way – by trusting his place in the Triune God’s plan to redeem sinners. We can learn from this. When we submit to God's will, we're not being weak. We're tapping into a powerful source of strength that comes from Him. So, in your own "Gethsemane" moments, remember Jesus and find your strength in submission, strength by saying "yes" to God.

It's a great day to live the Gospel!

God willing, we hope to see you on Sundays!