Watch and Pray

Watch and Pray

Keep actively watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the body is weak. Matthew 26:41(AMP)

Bible Reading: James 1:13-15

Being watchful is beyond the physical act; it is a continuous spiritual exercise that helps us to be sensitive to spiritual things. Watchfulness is important for alertness and seeing things from God’s perspective. It is an attitude, lifestyle that we have to develop. Jesus while speaking to His disciples commanded them to diligently watch even as they pray.

The incidence that led to Jesus’ command on being watchful was as a result of Jesus’ disciples sleeping while they were meant to be praying. However, Jesus reveals man’s vulnerability – ‘the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:40-43). Relating Jesus’ comments to today’s reading, we discover that many fall into temptation because of the weakness, passion and lust of the flesh. The desire for worldly pleasure, the pride of life and the lust of the eyes make many prayers ineffective because they were rendered in ungodliness and unrighteousness. As children of God, prayer is important, but we have to be watchful by walking circumspectly (Ephesians 5:15-20). As you pray, continue to walk and live by the spirit and live (Galatians 5:25). Do not allow the works of flesh to take over your heart and your mind. And do not lose your portion due to carelessness. Be spiritually alert and awake!

Self-Reflection: Be watchful even as you pray! It is a command.

Action Point: Prayerfully scan your life through the word of God for anything that may cause an hinderance to your prayer.

Daily Confession: Lord, I ask that You help me to be watchful, and prayerful in Jesus’ name. Take carelessness away from me and help me to diligently be alert and be sensitive in you. Amen

Intercessory prayer: Pray for orphans for God’s provision and protection.

Hymn: Christian! Seek not yet repose,

Hear thy guardian angel say;

Thou art in the midst of foes;

Watch and pray.