Matthew 26 - 8.28.24

Scripture

 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41

Observation

At the Last Supper, Jesus told his disciples what was coming, but they didn’t want to accept it. Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.” And, at the time, he truly meant it.

When Jesus went to pray that night, he told three of his disciples, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” But Peter and the others fell asleep. And then they did it again. And then they did it again.

The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Application

Reading this story reminded me of Sunday’s sermon, when Pastor Levi said some people are good starters, but not good finishers. This resonated with me. I have lots of ideas … and a lot less follow through. I start with enthusiasm, but the flesh is weak.

Jesus knew his disciples were weak, but he loved them anyway. And he loves me anyway. But this is no excuse for my behavior any more than it was for Peter when he denied knowing Jesus after his arrest. I pride myself on being a person of my word. Why would I not feel even more need to follow through on my commitments to God than to other people?

So where do I go from here?

1.     I need to ask God for forgiveness for taking his unfailing love for granted.

2.     I need to daily ask him for strength.

3.     There may be times when God will call me to big things, but in my everyday life, I think I need to start smaller and practice my follow through.

4.     I need to set habits in place that support fulfilling my commitments to God.

5.     I need to ask others to hold me accountable.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you that you love me regardless of where I fail. Please forgive me for the times I take You for granted and do not put You first. I AM desperate for more of You. Give me the strength to make that more than just words, but an action statement.

- Debbie Dunn