[342 words]
In a time of great trial and agony for Jesus, He lacked support from his closest disciples. Luke records that in the garden, Jesus prayed earnestly; “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” (Luke 22:45,46). Jesus knew the hour of trial was at hand and exhorts the disciples to pray as it was vital for them at such a time. He is warning them that such a neglect is dangerous against the adversary.
We are warned to stay awake as well by being alert or on guard. Paul includes prayer as a part of the whole armor of God; “Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18).
The apostle Paul informed the Thessalonians about how quickly the day of the Lord will come, “For you are not of the night or darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:5,6).
It sure seems to me that many of us have fallen asleep. A nation of people who once proudly proclaimed “In God we trust” have fallen asleep spiritually and consequently, have entered into temptation. There seems to be no thought for alertness in the minds of many, but, it’s later than we think!
We would do well to heed Paul ‘s warning to the Romans: “Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed, The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:11,12).
Satan is dangerous, he is a hungry lion; let’s stay awake and be alert!
Terry Ellison
Crosbyton church of Christ
Crosbyton, TX