And they were afraid to ask him

JESUS had been speaking of his death. The disciples did not understand him. They wanted information, but they were afraid to ask him. Their fear w;groundless,—it was injurious. So is ours very frequently, for we often copy them in what was wrong. Jesus is with us. He is ever present as our Saviour and Friend. He is willing to hear our requests, and bids us ask for favours. He regards our petitions, and always answers us in wisdom and love. He is ever pleased to hear us, and encourages us to draw nigh unto him; but we often act as if we were afraid to ask him; especially, to explain to us the mysteries in his word; to show us the design of his dark and perplexing providences ; to reveal to us our interest in his love, and make our election sure; to give us the blessings we feel we need, the favours we desire, or the mercies which others enjoy. But why do we fear to ask him ? Lest it should be presumption, because we are so mean and unworthy ; because our unbelief is so strong, and we do not believe the love which he hath to us, in consequence of the temptations of Satan, who fears our confidence and hates our souls.

Come, my soul, thy suit prepare;
Jesus loves to answer prayer:
He himself has bid thee pray,
Therefore will not s,iy thee nay.