Here are some of Luther’s thoughts from the Large Catechism regarding “Thy will be done:”
“If we would be Christians, therefore, we must surely expect and count on having the devil with all his angels and the world as our enemies [Matthew 25:41; Revelation 12:9]. They will bring every possible misfortune and grief upon us. For where God’s Word is preached, accepted, or believed and produces fruit, there the holy cross cannot be missing [Acts 14:22]. And let no one think that he shall have peace [Matthew 10:34]. He must risk whatever he has upon earth—possessions, honor, house and estate, wife and children, body and life. Now, this hurts our flesh and the old Adam [Ephesians 4:22]. The test is to be steadfast and to suffer with patience [James 5:7–8] in whatever way we are assaulted, and to let go whatever is taken from us [1 Peter 2:20–21].
So there is just as great a need, as in all the other petitions, that we pray without ceasing, ‘Dear Father, Your will be done, not the devil’s will or our enemies’ or anything that would persecute and suppress Your holy Word or hinder Your kingdom. Grant that we may bear with patience and overcome whatever is to be endured because of Your Word and kingdom, so that our poor flesh may not yield or fall away because of weakness or sluggishness.’”
Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, we live in a world where Your will seems neglected and rejected. Strengthen us in faith that we would learn to love your holy will and seek for it to be fulfilled among us. Amen.
God’s richest blessings in Christ,
Pastor Philip Quardokus
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