STAY ALERT
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)
"Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man."
Luke 21:36 (NLT)
We didn't know much about German Shepherds when we were offered a full-bred, 8-week-old puppy a few years ago, but we soon learned how unique these pups were. Known for their strong instincts, intelligence and loyalty, German Shepherds have been specifically bred for years to assess threats and serve as guardians. They are watchful, alert and fully on duty when triggered. That's why many police forces use these breeds for their K9 units.
One trigger that immediately puts our pup on duty is attaching his leash to his collar. As soon as the leash is fastened, he goes into full protective mode, and nothing escapes his attention. When he's leashed up, he's fully aware of everything happening around him.
This image comes to mind as I read the second half of Ephesians 6:18. After describing the spiritual armor the Christian needs to put on, Paul explains that each armored soldier must stay alert and persistently prayerful. Like my pup, who's been triggered by his leash, we need to stay alert and watchful after putting on our spiritual armor as we step out into today's battlefield.
One of the enemy's greatest weapons against us is distraction. Whether it's phone notifications, social media, the pace we move or even our own feelings, the enemy wants to keep our attention off God and unaware of the devil's tactics.
But through alertness and prayer, we cling to our vital connection with God, who strengthens us and helps us to stand firm.
APPLICATION: Identify one distraction that keeps your attention off of God. Maybe it's turning off notifications on your phone or deleting an addictive app. Every time you remember that distraction throughout the day, take a minute to pray that God strengthens your connection with Him instead.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for strengthening me for today's battles. I believe You are with me, protecting me, and will help me stay alert and strong through any temptation or distraction that comes my way today. I cannot do it in my own strength; I need Yours. Remind me how sweet it is to walk in Your presence and help me to stay alert to You all day long. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?