stay. watch. pray.
I never noticed this before.
I’ve read this portion of scripture dozens of times and never really took in what Jesus asks His disciples to do. You know the scene–the Garden of Gethsemane, where blood and sweat run freely together with prayer and grace. And Jesus asks his disciples to pray.
32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. 34 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”35 He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36 And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” 37 Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Go back and read verse 38 again.
And I thought Jesus was asking His disciples to stay, watch, and pray for Him.
Not even close.
Jesus was asking His disciples to pray for themselves. Jesus knew what was coming. He knew His disciples would be tempted.
What is the antidote to temptation?
stay. watch. pray.
Stay: Stay in the presence of Jesus no matter what. Always. Don’t run, stay.
Watch: Watch for your enemies. Not Romans and Pharisees, but Satan and your own flesh. They will tempt you to run from your Savior. Watch what you’re watching. Watch what you’re hearing. Watch what you’re doing. Watch out. Watch it. Watch.
Pray: Pray for strength to see truth, resist temptation, and stay with Jesus. Not my will be done, but Thy will be done. Pray for God to help you love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Pray about everything. Big things. Little things. Hard things. Easy things. Everything.
In times of hardship and trouble, during your darkest hour in your own Garden of Gethsemane remember what Jesus said to do:
Stay. Watch. Pray.
Have a blessed Easter.
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