August 17, 2026
— Biographical Dictionary of Chinese Christianity (BDCC) · Source: BDCC, "Wilhelm, Richard" (reproduced from A Dictionary of Asian Christianity, ed. Scott W. Sunquist, 2001), bdcconline.net
Matthew 26:39 Then he went a little further and fell facedown to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
"Not my will, but yours be done." Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane reveals the deepest peace in life—not stemming from absolute control over destiny, but from complete surrender to the divine will. We often feel weary from clinging to our own plans and anxieties, trying to forcibly control an uncontrollable future. However, true rest for the soul begins the moment we let go of our ego. When we return sovereignty to the Most High God and submit to His perfect order that transcends time and space, the storms of life can no longer disturb the tranquility of our hearts, and the soul, in submission, gains the eternal power to transcend fear and death.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for guarding my life with your endless love and supreme order. Lord, please forgive me for my unbelief and weakness when I often try to control my destiny with my own wisdom and feel anxious and trapped. Please grant me the obedience and courage of the Garden of Gethsemane, so that I can learn to loosen my clenched fists and surrender my frustrations and worries to You. May Your will be fulfilled in my life, grant me peace and rest beyond worldly understanding, and enable my soul to enjoy eternal stability in Your true light. I pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen!