Luke 22:39-46
And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” (Luke 22:40 ESV)
There are books on prayer, sermons on prayer, and countless opinions on prayer. Jesus told his followers as he was going off to pray for strength for the difficulties to to come, that they should pray. If Jesus told his disciples to pray there was a good reason. One we can learn from.
Why would Jesus tell his followers to pray? He wanted them to ask God for the same kind of strength he was looking for. He wanted them to be ready. He wanted them to overcome the temptations just around the corner.
Temptation can be stifling. If you haven't positioned yourself for the battle it can be nearly impossible. Prayer is something we can do that sets us up for success. Why? It isn't magic. If you approach it as such your results may not be what you were hoping for. However, if you remember it as the relational interaction between Father and child that it actually is, then you will be encouraged, strengthened, and prepared to face down temptation.