TITLE: WATCH, PRAY & EXPECT

TEXT: MATTHEW 26:39-41 & PSALMS 5:1-12

39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak

Matthew 26:41 + Psalm 5

PSALM 5:1–3

Listen to my words, LORD, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; you destroy those who tell lies.

The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, LORD, detest. But I, by your great love, can come into your house in reverence. I bow down toward your holy temple. Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness; because of my enemies, make your way straight before me. ‘

Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies.

Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you.11

But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy.

Your protection over them that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

POINT 1 — WATCH YOURSELF

Matthew 26:41 says: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” 

POINT 2 — PRAY TO GOD

Matthew 26:39: “He went a little farther and fell with his face to the ground and prayed…”

Psalm 5:3 says: “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you…”

3. WATCH GOD.

Look at Psalm 5:3.

1. WATCH YOURSELF

Be aware.

“Lord, what is happening in me?”

1. PRAY TO GOD

Be dependent.

“Lord, I need You before I face what is coming.”

1. WATCH GOD

Be expectant.

“Lord, because I know You hear me, I’m going to watch for how You respond.”

APPLICATION

Tomorrow morning, before you get ready for the day: Watch (think through) what the day could bring.

Pray and give it to the Lord. Then watch for Him to respond.