Text: Mark 14:32-41
Memory Verse: “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed iswilling, but the flesh isweak” (Mark 14:38).
Impetuous Peter was so full of himself without realising that he needed help in order not to fall into temptation. Being human, he thought that every battle was physical and could not imagine the events leading up to the crucifixion of his Master. He tried to fight a spiritual battle with physical effort by cutting off Marcus’ ear in the wake of Jesus’ arrest. He had been sleeping when he should have been praying. It was no wonder that he fled and
forsook his Master, denying him, not just once, but thrice (Mark 14:66-72).
Life comes with attendant problems and, so, it is foolish not to handle life prayerfully, especially when things appear to be going well. Only the spiritually discerning can see beyond the physical because, oftentimes, things are not what they seem. Walking through life without God is opening yourself up as a prey to the devil and his wicked cohorts.
Jesus must have spent close to three hours agonising over His impending trial and death on the cross with God. Little wonder He was able to go through the difficult time leading to His crucifixion for mankind.
You need to prepare before problems come by spending quality time praying to the all able God. When things are nice and rosy, pray; when they are not looking great, pray. Pray before temptation comes. It takes just one wrong
move for things to go awfully wrong. Pray always. The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous avails much (James 5:16b).
Prayer Points:
1. Strengthen my prayer life, O God.
2. Grant me more grace to tarry in prayer.