Be On Guard

Then [Jesus] returned to His disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," He said to Peter, "are you asleep? Couldn't you keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." -MARK 14:37-38 NIV 

In this race called life, you will encounter many problems on your way to the finish line. The best way to avoid becoming entangled in these problems is knowing how to spot them and then steering clear from them. The Bible provides precise and effective instructions for accomplishing this and gives us advice for the journey. 

Take a minute to unwind. Look for a welcoming place where you can relax and position yourself in a comfortable manner. Now, focus on your time with God. Allow your mind to drift toward the Lord and prepare your heart to be filled with His Word.  

The Bible tells us that we are to be careful of the thoughts we allow to occupy our minds and mindful of the actions we engage in. It says we should measure the words we speak and be cautious of the company we keep, being prudent of the situations we place ourselves in. We are to do these things to guard ourselves from sin. When sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, it corrupted not only human nature but also creation and the world. Because of sin's contamination and corruption, the world itself fell from grace. This is why our desires by default will bend toward sin. So we are called to be aware of our surroundings and know what's happening inside our hearts. 

Remember, you can remain vigilant through prayer so that you won't enter into temptation. Your spirit wants to do what is right, but your body is weak. So put aside all sinful thoughts and desires. Choose this day to set your sights on Jesus, to pray and read His Holy Word, to receive His strength and fortitude. God is on your side. He wants to hear you and to bless you. Be bold and be brave in your resistance of sin. 

PRAYER:  

Lord, I exalt You, for I called upon You in my day of trouble and You answered me. I praise You, for You delivered me from my distress. I glorify You, Jesus, for You are my rock and my fortress, my sure foundation. In You I can stand secure. I bless Your name, God, for Your steadfast love. I know You will never leave or forsake me. At times I feel like I'm stumbling through my race of life. I feel weary and overwhelmed and distracted. I give in to temptation because I take my eyes off You. Forgive me for my unfaithfulness. Thank You for hearing my prayers, Lord. Thank You for Your faithfulness and Your strength. Thank You for the victory on the cross that allows for my victory over sin. Thank You for Your Spirit interceding for me. You are with me now, and You hear my prayers. Help me to persevere in prayer. Help me understand Your Holy Word and apply it to my heart. Give me divine endurance and strength so I can run well. Give me control over my thoughts and emotions. Help me lean on You and not my own understanding. Amen. 

This is an excerpt from Pray: Daily Moments to Quiet Your Mind and Center Your Soul – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.