Early Morning Praying
I believe praying early in the morning is the best time for us to pray. One reason I have come to this conclusion is that Jesus had a habit of praying early in the morning. Yes, I know it takes effort, but it is worth it. (Mark 1:35) Mark tells us that Jesus got up while it was still dark. That takes determination and effort. He left the house where they were staying, so he had to go to even more effort to get ready to go outside. Then, He went to a secluded place where He could be alone with the Father, and He was praying there. We do not know how long, but it must not have just been a short prayer because of all of the effort He put into it. However, it must have been very important, or He would not have gone to all of the trouble. I wonder if we are willing to follow this example of our Lord in prayer?
If we read this verse in context, we see Jesus had a busy day the day before. He was healing people and meeting needs well into the night. However, He still made it a priority to get up before the sun came up to pray. This is the best time because our mind is fresh, our metabolism is not in high gear, and we are able to speak with God. Having a conversation requires us to be able to listen to the Father, and those conditions are very conducive for this. Also, as we start our day, we pray for God's direction, so we can do the things He has foreordained for us to do that day. (Ephesians 2:10) That is what Jesus was doing, evidently, because when the disciples found Him and encouraged Jesus to come back to the city, He told them He was going to the other cities. He had His marching orders from the Father, and He was ready to obey. Finally, we are able to get our heart straight, and to be filled with the Spirit to start the day on the right foot. That helps us so much to do God's will. I pray we will all take up this vital practice which we see here in our Lord, and watch to see how much it helps us in our lives. It is my greatest daily blessing to pray in this way.
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Tomorrow, I intend to read Mark 2-4.