Luke 21:34-38 – Watch and Pray
Jesus has prophesied about events that are going to take place in the future, now He gives the disciples practical instructions about what they are to do in light of these future events. First, they are to be on guard against loving the world and the things of the world too much. Notice it is the disciples to whom He gives this warning. These are men who have given up everything for Christ’s sake, and have proved the reality of their faith by loving obedience and firmly following their Master. Yet Jesus warns even them. And if they are in danger of loving the things of the world, how much more are we! We are all capable of this sin. It is not just the love of the world’s evils that Christ warns us about, but an excessive love of the good things of the world – a love that puts those things and their worries and cares in the place of God in our lives. Let us remember to keep God first in our lives.
Jesus also tells His disciples to always be prepared to meet God. This also applies to us, not just because Christ can return at any time, but also we may die at any time. Whether a heart attack, a car crash, or cancer, death can come quickly to any of us. Are you prepared? If you do not live to see tomorrow, will you be ready to meet your Lord?
Christ finally tells His disciples to watch and pray. We are to watch. We are to live on our guard like men in an enemy’s country. We are to remember that evil is around us, and near us, and in us. We must put on the armour of God and beware of spiritual sleep. We are to pray always. We are to keep up a constant habit of real prayer, speaking to God daily about our souls. We should pray especially for grace to overcome sin and anything that interferes with our relationship with God. And we should be careful of hurrying or shortening our prayers. Watch and pray.
Questions
- What does Christ warn us against?
- How can you be better prepared to meet God?
Prayer Points
- Pray that God would make us ready to meet Him at any time.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.