How can we prepare ourselves to face challenges like Jesus in Matthew 20:22? Setting the Scene “Jesus answered, ‘You do not know what you are asking,’ … ‘Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?’ ” (Matthew 20:22). James and John wanted honor. Jesus pointed them to a “cup” of suffering, showing that glory in the kingdom is inseparable from faithful endurance on earth. What Does Jesus Mean by “the Cup”? - In Scripture, a “cup” pictures an assigned portion—often suffering or judgment (Psalm 75:8; Isaiah 51:17). - Jesus’ own cup was literal: betrayal, crucifixion, bearing sin (Matthew 26:39). - By asking if they could drink it, He invited His followers to embrace God’s plan, even when it hurts (Mark 10:38). Facing Our Own Cups: Lessons from Matthew 20:22 - Challenges are part of the Christian walk; Jesus never hides the cost (John 16:33). - Suffering is not random; it is a divinely measured cup that advances God’s purposes (Romans 8:28). - Readiness begins with recognizing that what happened to the Master will happen, in measure, to His disciples (2 Timothy 3:12). Practical Steps to Prepare for Trials • Cultivate Close Communion – Daily time in the Word conditions the heart (Psalm 1:2-3). – Honest prayer, like Jesus in Gethsemane, strengthens resolve (Matthew 26:42). • Embrace Self-Denial – “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny himself and take up his cross daily” (Luke 9:23). – Voluntary disciplines—fasting, generous giving, serving unnoticed—train us to say yes to God and no to self. • Anchor in Gospel Hope – Remember Christ’s finished work; our trials have an end and a purpose (Hebrews 12:2). – Meditate on future glory: “If we suffer with Him, we will also be glorified with Him” (Romans 8:17). • Lean on the Body of Christ – Shared burdens lighten loads; early believers “devoted themselves to fellowship” (Acts 2:42). – Seek accountability and encouragement; isolation weakens, community fortifies (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Expect Refining, Not Destruction – “Do not be surprised at the fiery trial…as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12). – Trials purify faith “more precious than gold” (1 Peter 1:7). Promises to Anchor Our Hearts - God limits every test (1 Corinthians 10:13). - Christ intercedes for us (Romans 8:34). - The Spirit empowers endurance (Ephesians 3:16). - Ultimate victory is guaranteed (Revelation 21:4). Living It Out Today Approach each difficulty as part of the cup assigned by a wise, loving Father. Rely on Scripture’s certainty, the Spirit’s power, and the example of Jesus, who drank His cup to the dregs and now reigns. As we follow Him, we too can face challenges with unwavering courage and confident hope. |
    |