As the Body of Christ and His representatives on this earth, we are to be alert, sharp, and awake spiritually. God has also called us to be watchers on the wall. Matthew 26:41 – “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” There is a call going forth from the throne of God to His people to pay attention! Signs are everywhere that we are in the end times. During these challenging days it is more important now than ever before to be attentive, stay focused, and listen to God. The Lord wants us as His people to be prepared for the future and not get caught off guard.
Remember the song we used to sing in church as kids? — “Be careful little eyes what you see, be careful little eyes what you see, for the Father up above is looking down in love, so be careful little eyes what you see…” This song also refers to our ears and our mouth needing surveillance as well. Monitoring ourselves is needed today especially with all the advanced technology and visual temptations that are available. Be aware of what you see, hear and say. What or who has your attention? Distractions are everywhere and the enemy uses this as a tool to get us off track.
Have you ever noticed when you set aside special time to pray that there are usually many interruptions? Thoughts, emotions, memories, media, peer pressure, jobs, and expectations of others can all contribute to getting you off course. Whether it is family, friends, work, television, texting, or whatever, it will distract you if allowed. These things in themselves are not wrong. However, if you permit them to hinder your focus on prayer and hearing from God, then they are wrong. It’s imperative that you take time to center your thoughts on the Lord.
Recently a group of intercessors here at the ministry learned how to stay focused during prayer. For several months during prayer time there were continual interruptions– people opening doors, talking, walking through, construction work going on, background noise, etc. At first this was somewhat irritating and frustrating. However, we soon began to realize that this actually was a blessing in disguise and a lesson in self-discipline. God was teaching us to stay focused in prayer and tuned into the Holy Spirit. Later on, the Lord explained that we were being prepared and strengthened through obedience, discipline and determination for future times. We were learning to listen to God’s voice above all others and “pray through” regardless of our surroundings.
Father God, please help us as Your children to be more sensitive to Your voice. Help us to be attentive and focused during prayer and to answer the call to be watchers on the wall. May we stay focused on You, Jesus, and spend more quality time with You. FATHER, help us all to continue growing in the grace and knowledge of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!!
