All of you must keep awake (give strict attention, be cautious and active) and watch and pray, that you may not come into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Notice how the scripture says "the flesh is weak", not "some people have weak flesh". When it comes to the frailty of human flesh, it is unanimous, everyone has sinful tendencies. What is the solution? Prayer! But not just prayer in this case, Jesus says "watch and pray". The goal here for us is not to enter into temptation. In other words, to try to avoid the difficult situations all together. To watch is to be cautious and observant, to give strict attention. You know what your weakest areas are, and it just makes sense to not only pray, but to also be on the lookout so that you can avoid the pitfalls of your carnal desires. Remember when Joseph was tempted by his masters wife? Joseph didn't hang around to discuss it over lunch, he high tailed it out of there and removed himself from the dangerous situation. Yes his prayers had prepared him for the test, but I would also argue that his caution and quick actions played a role as well. Starting today, add to your prayers a watchful attitude, and let God ordain your steps through the light of His Word in your heart. Amen
This works if you work it! I am a witness to a relapse and if we give way in the least little bit to the temptation of the flesh it can take us over. Staying away from the triggers are an essential part of sobriety and I have learned this the hard way. Prayer was the first to suffer and then I came the flesh. Prayer keeps humility from leaving and pride from showing up! Watch it!!
ReplyDelete