A significant theme of Scripture - especially the Prophets - is that the people who receive the grace of God and are used by God are the people who are spiritually prepared. “Prepared for the Lord” acknowledges that we are in need of God to act, to pour out his grace - and He chooses when and how he does that. But he is also constantly telling his people how to be ready, how to be prepared.

OPENING DISCUSSION
Have you ever experienced a time when you prayed for guidance or strength and saw God provide clearly? Share your experience.

BIG IDEA
The key to being prepared for the Lord to work is prayer and a willingness to obey.

READ
John 14:12-17 and pray

In this passage, Jesus tells his disciples that he is going back to the Father but promises to send the Holy Spirit to empower them to do even greater works than he himself did. These “greater works” would not be greater in power but more significant in extent. In other words, while Jesus’ ministry and works were confined to one person in one region, his disciples, empowered by the Spirit, would soon take the works of Jesus to the ends of the earth. As they obediently go into the world, empowered by the Holy Spirit, Jesus promises to give them whatever they need when they ask God in prayer.

Jesus promised to give his disciples “whatever” they ask for in his name.
 

• What does it mean to pray to the Father in the name of Jesus? Why is this so significant?
• How should we understand the words “whatever” and “anything” in these verses (vv 13-14)?
• Have you ever asked God for something good (e.g. the salvation of a friend, healing for a family member, etc) that he seemed to say no to? How does that square with Jesus’ promise to give his disciples whatever they ask for?

In this passage, Jesus links doing good works, praying for what we need, and receiving the Spirit’s help.

• What are some of the “good works” Jesus is calling you to give yourself to right now?
• In what ways has this work exposed your need for the power and provision of Jesus?
• How has this affected your prayer life?
• How have you experienced Jesus giving you what you need in this season?

• Spend time praying for one another, asking for God’s empowerment to step out in faith, and be ready to obey His call and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
• Our Spring 2025 Prayer Guide lists a number of the “greater works” Jesus has called us to as a church family. Take some time to ask the Father for help in Jesus’ name. 

Challenge for the Week:
Each day, take time to ask God: “Lord, what would You have me do today?” Be attentive to His leading and commit to obeying in faith.