Christ’s Prayer

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Scripture: John 17:15-17 (NIV)

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.

Devotion:

In John 17:15-17, we find Jesus praying not only for His disciples but also for all who would follow Him. These words are spoken during a deeply intimate moment, as Christ prepares to face the cross. The heart of His prayer is not for escape from the world’s trials, but rather for protection and sanctification amid them: "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth."

Jesus knows the world is fraught with temptation, opposition, and spiritual dangers. Yet, He does not pray for His followers to be removed from these challenges. Instead, He asks the Father to guard them from the evil one. This reveals the heart of God for His people—not to shield us from all difficulty, but to empower us to stand firm and true within it. Our calling is not to withdraw, but to be present as ambassadors of Christ, shining His light in places of darkness.

He then makes a profound statement: "They are not of the world, even as I am not of it." As believers, our identity has shifted. Though we live in the world, our true citizenship is in heaven. Our values, our hope, and our purpose are rooted in Christ, not in the shifting sands of culture or circumstance. This truth brings both comfort and challenge. Comfort, because we know we belong to God; challenge, because we are called to live differently, reflecting the character of Jesus even when it is difficult.

Finally, Jesus prays, "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." Sanctification is the process of being set apart for God, growing in holiness and maturity. Jesus points to God’s Word as the means by which this transformation occurs. In a world full of conflicting messages, the truth of Scripture anchors us, shapes our thinking, and directs our actions. The more we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, the more we become like Christ.

Today, let us take comfort in knowing that Jesus Himself prayed for our protection and growth. Let us not fear the world nor shrink from its challenges, but trust that God is with us, sanctifying us by His truth. May we hold fast to His Word and live as those who are in the world, but not of it—reflecting the love and holiness of our Savior wherever we go.

Prayer:

            Lord Jesus, thank you for praying for us. We are so in need of your intercession on our behalf. Keep us from the ways of the Evil One and deliver us from all his minions. Also, keep us safe from the snares of the world and our own flesh. Teach us to rely on you for our daily needs and help us to walk in your ways. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

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