Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?” He asked Peter. (Matthew 26:40)
Most soldiers know how difficult staying awake on guard duty can be, especially during the hours of darkness. History has proven, though, that failure to remain awake and alert has cost lives in every war.
As an infantry lieutenant in Vietnam, I routinely pulled guard from 3 to 6 a.m. As the leader, I felt accountable and responsible to make sure all soldiers performing guard stayed alert. In the spiritual war for our souls, the enemy hopes to find us asleep. This verse is a vivid reminder of how easily we can let our spiritual guard down. Peter, James, and John failed to keep watch with Jesus for just one hour. Understanding the enemy’s strategy and tactics can motivate us to be more watchful.
For example, predators have abducted children when parents didn’t keep watch. Simple attentiveness could have averted disaster. It works that way in our struggle against the devil as well.
Can the Lord count on you to “keep watch” spiritually? Your very soul depends on it.
