48 STAY THE WATCH.

“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

     —Matthew 26:41

Stay the watch. Don’t retire before your watch is over and you’ve been relieved. Be alert. It’s never too late and you’re never too tired to pray.

When the flesh is weak, don’t try to stay the watch alone. Get help and support.

     •     Pray with a prayer partner.

     •     Ask the Spirit to help you pray.

     •     Pray the Word of God.

     •     Pray in the Spirit.

     •     Gather with other saints to worship and prayer.

     •     Pray in different positions of prayer—standing, kneeling, lying prostrate, walking, lifting holy hands and bowing in prayer.

     •     Fast and prayer.

     •     Worship, sing, praise and shout your prayer.

Scripture commands us to rest. Pray when you’re rested. Take care of the temple of your body. Watching and praying gives you the strength to resist temptation.

God,

Empower me to stay the watch. Amen.