Embracing God’s Will in Times of Trial - Luke 22

Pastor Dan Walker, PhD, MDiv

Introduction: Learning to Embrace God’s Purpose in Difficulty

Our message this morning is entitled “Embracing God’s Will in Times of Trial.” Each one of us faces trials of many kinds in our lives, and those trials often come in unexpected seasons. Sometimes we face trials in relationships, and at other times there are trials in our circumstances that feel beyond our control.

Trials may be in the area of health, finances, or worry about the future, and each type of trial tests us in a different way. When these challenges arise, a natural question surfaces in our hearts about how we should respond. Scripture gives us guidance, even when our emotions resist what God is asking of us.

James 1:2 (ESV) Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,

God’s Word tells us to count it all joy when we face trials, even though that response does not come easily. For most of us, joy is not the first reaction when hardship appears, and we may struggle to understand how a trial can be counted as joy. Yet Scripture invites us to look deeper than our immediate circumstances.

Everything that comes into our lives, including trials, has been allowed by God, and nothing surprises Him. Since God is good, everything that God allows comes because He loves you and has a purpose for your life. Even in difficulty, He has something good in mind for you through that trial.

James 1:3–4 (ESV) for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

This passage explains the reason for trials and reminds us that trials are a test of our faith. When we respond to trials with faith rather than fear, God uses them to make us stronger and more mature. Today, we are going to learn how to embrace God’s good will in times of trial by looking at how Jesus faced the greatest trial of His life.

Trusting God’s Provision

Luke 22:35 (ESV) And he said to them, “When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “Nothing.”

Jesus reminded His disciples of a time when He sent them out to preach the Gospel without money, food, or extra clothing. They were required to trust God completely for provision as they ministered. Looking back, the disciples remembered that God had faithfully provided for them in the past.

They had been sent out in the familiar and friendly region of Galilee, where people welcomed them with hospitality. Their needs were met not because of their own resources, but because of God’s faithfulness working through others. This memory was meant to strengthen their trust as new challenges approached.

Luke 22:36 (ESV) He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.

Something was changing as Jesus prepared for His death and resurrection, and the circumstances around the disciples were about to become far more dangerous. They were in Jerusalem, where persecution would soon intensify and opposition would grow stronger. Jesus instructed them to take prudent steps while still depending on the Lord’s help.

The mention of swords caused confusion among the disciples, but Jesus was not calling them to physical violence. Rather, He was emphasizing the seriousness of the coming trial and the need for spiritual readiness. They were entering a season where trust in God would be tested in new ways.

Luke 22:37–38 (ESV) For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about me has its fulfillment.” And they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” And he said to them, “It is enough.”

Jesus reminded them that He would soon face death and be crucified between criminals, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy. Everything written about the Messiah would come to pass exactly as God had planned. When the disciples produced literal swords, Jesus corrected their misunderstanding by signaling that physical weapons were not the solution.

His lesson was ultimately about trusting God’s provision and plan, even when circumstances became hostile. Jesus was preparing them to rely on God rather than force. This trust would be essential as they faced trials beyond anything they had known before.

Remembering God’s Faithfulness Builds Confidence Today

When applying this teaching to our own trials, we are first called to remember how God has provided for us in the past. Gratitude strengthens faith by reminding us of God’s consistent care. As we thank Him for past provision, our confidence grows for what lies ahead.

We can also thank God in advance, trusting that He will provide for us now and in the future. Faith looks forward, even when circumstances appear uncertain. Trusting God’s provision allows us to walk through trials with peace instead of fear.

During World War II, Corrie ten Boom and her family hid Jews from the Nazis in their home, an act that eventually led to their arrest. Corrie and her sister Betsie were sent to a concentration camp, where they continued to trust God for provision in unimaginable conditions. They held secret Bible studies and prayer meetings, relying on God even in the darkest place.

Corrie was released just days before women her age were executed, and she later shared her testimony worldwide. Her life inspired countless people to trust God even in severe trials. No matter what you are facing, God calls you to trust in His provision.

The Power of Prayer in Trial

Luke 22:39–40 (ESV) And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”

Jesus went with His disciples to the Mount of Olives, a familiar place of prayer and fellowship. He instructed them to pray because He knew a powerful trial was approaching. Prayer was essential preparation for what they were about to face.

Jesus understood that trials are not only external events but spiritual battles. He warned them that without prayer, temptation would overcome them. His instruction highlights the necessity of prayer before, during, and after trials.

Luke 22:41–42 (ESV) And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”

Jesus demonstrated the heart of prayer in trial by honestly expressing His desire while fully submitting to the Father’s will. His temptation was to avoid the suffering of the cross, a suffering He had the power to escape. Yet He chose obedience over comfort.

In this moment, Jesus embraced God’s will no matter the cost. His prayer shows us that submission to God does not mean ignoring pain, but trusting God through it. Victory begins when we surrender our will to His.

Luke 22:43–44 (ESV) And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

God responded to Jesus’ prayer by sending an angel to strengthen Him. Even then, the battle was intense, and Jesus continued praying earnestly. His perseverance in prayer led Him to victory over temptation.

Luke 22:45–46 (ESV) And when he rose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.”

The disciples failed to pray and instead fell asleep, leaving them unprepared for what followed. Jesus warned them again, knowing that spiritual weakness would soon lead to failure. Their lack of prayer would soon result in fear and denial.

Praying Through Temptation Leads to Victory

Every trial carries with it a temptation to reject God’s will in favor of our own. Jesus prayed until He gained victory over that temptation, fully submitting to the Father. His example shows us the necessity of persistent prayer.

The disciples illustrate what happens when prayer is neglected. Sleep and distraction are common tools used to keep believers from praying. That is why intentional prayer, often in the morning, helps guard our hearts and minds.

James teaches us to ask God for wisdom in trials so we can discern His will. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s purposes and gives us strength to endure. When facing trials, pray consistently and pray with others so that victory can be shared.

Facing Betrayal with Grace

Luke 22:47–48 (ESV) While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Judas, who had followed Jesus for three years, betrayed Him with a kiss. What should have been a sign of affection became an act of deep betrayal. Jesus faced this moment fully aware of what was happening.

Luke 22:49–51 (ESV) And when those who were around him saw what would follow, they said, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him.

The disciples responded with violence, attempting to defend Jesus. Jesus stopped them and healed the wounded man, demonstrating grace instead of retaliation. His response revealed the heart of God even toward enemies.

Luke 22:52–53 (ESV) Then Jesus said to the chief priests and officers of the temple and elders, who had come out against him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”

Jesus recognized that this betrayal was part of a larger spiritual battle. Though it appeared to be the triumph of darkness, it was ultimately part of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus faced betrayal with grace and submission.

Choosing Forgiveness Instead of Retaliation

Betrayal often produces a desire to fight back or seek revenge. Jesus’ example calls us to forgive even when forgiveness feels impossible. On the cross, He prayed for those who harmed Him, showing the depth of God’s grace.

Forgiveness does not excuse wrongdoing, but it releases the burden of revenge. To forgive is to trust God with justice and healing. It is an act of faith that overcomes evil with good.

In 2006, the Amish community in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania responded to tragedy with forgiveness. They comforted the gunman’s family and attended his funeral, demonstrating Christlike love. Their response reminds us that grace has the power to transform even the deepest pain.

Conclusion: Finding Victory Through God’s Will

Jesus’ example inspires us to trust God’s plan even in the face of suffering. In every trial, we are called to trust God’s provision and rely on His faithfulness. Prayer strengthens us to submit to God’s will and overcome temptation.

When betrayal or hurt comes, God calls us to respond with forgiveness and grace. As we embrace God’s will in every trial, we find true victory and lasting peace. Through faith, prayer, and forgiveness, God leads us through every challenge.

📘 Continue the Journey

Reflect deeper and apply this week’s message with the Message Study Guide — perfect for personal devotions, family discussion, or your Life Group.

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