Such was the seriousness with which Jesus viewed prayer. His attitude and practice reflect His full spiritual maturity. Like Peter, we fall far short of that level of maturity. But as children of God, we are growing up into the full likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:13,15). Therefore we make it our aim to have the same kind of seriousness about prayer. Jesus showed us that only one thing is supremely important: spiritual health and well-being in our relationship with God. If Jesus, the unique Son of God, needed prayer so much, how much more we who are adopted into the family of God? We should give up sleep, food, comfort (and certainly entertainment) rather than neglect our time with God in prayer. Peter himself reminds us that we should be willing to suffer.
For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21).
The examples at which we have looked are not isolated peaks of Jesus’ prayer-life. Though some are from unusual events, they reflect His normal habits.
Even more the report about Him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear Him and to be healed of their infirmities. But He would withdraw to desolate places and pray (Luke 5:16).
The word “would” refers to habitual activity—Jesus often made a time and place for prayer. As we survey the life of Jesus, this pattern of prayer is evident from beginning to end.